Chronic Illness: A Guide to Getting the Support You Need

Chronic Illness: A Guide to Getting the Support You Need

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I have been on a chronic health journey for over 10 years, which ultimately led me to the field of holistic nutrition. I understand how lonely it can feel to wait for a diagnosis, especially when you aren't being seen or heard by your healthcare team. I have learned a great deal during those years navigating the healthcare environment and in my studies as a nutritionist. Thus, I wanted to share some of what I would do differently if I were just beginning my journey towards healing.

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Let this serve as a guide on how to navigate the healthcare system in the midst of your struggle to find solutions and relief.

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Finding the Right Healthcare Practitioner

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Here’s a little background: When I was experiencing the worst of my health issues, I couldn't talk, eat, or walk without pain. I had extreme fatigue, was unable to drive, or read, and had to drop out of school.

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Here are a few actual quotes from my doctors that you may be able to relate to:

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"There’s nothing else we can do; you are just going to have to learn to live like this."

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"Your labs are normal, so nothing is wrong."

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"You are just constipated."

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"You are too young to feel like this."

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As a result, I began to believe I was out of options and that I was simply making something out of nothing. That is a very dark and hopeless place to be.

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Your healthcare providers should always provide resources, referrals, or solutions.

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If your healthcare provider makes you feel minimized, gaslit, unheard, or hopeless, it may be time to find a new provider. 

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If they claim there are no other options, that is a significant signal that this person can no longer help you. It’s possible that they lack knowledge about your condition or the available treatment options, or they may be closed-minded to other healthcare modalities outside their comfort zone.

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There are always other options and you do not need to live like this forever.

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Remember, what your doctor says is not the law. They are human and may not know you well enough to make tailored recommendations. Always engage in self-reflection and critical thinking when deciding how to care for your body. You can also get a second or third opinion to see what other treatment options are available.

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Questions to Ask When Choosing a Healthcare Provider

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- Do I feel comfortable with them?

- Do they listen to me?

- Are they providing helpful resources, referrals, or recommendations?

- Have I experienced symptom relief through my visits?

- Are they spending enough time with me to truly understand what I am going through and what I need?

- Are they looking deeper to identify the root cause of my issue?

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Building Your Healthcare Team

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With chronic conditions, we often need more than one type of practitioner to achieve relief. This allows you to receive support from multiple perspectives.

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While MDs can certainly be part of this team, they are not your only option. Here are some other practitioners you might consider:

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- Nutritionist

- Naturopathic Doctor

- Doctor of Oriental Medicine

- Physical Therapist

- Therapist

- Chiropractor

- Occupational Therapist

- Health Coach

- Kinesiologist

- Herbalist

- Personal Trainer

- Massage Therapist

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You don’t need to see all of these practitioners, but spreading your care across several different viewpoints may help you find relief more quickly and discover what works best for you and your body.

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Create an Advocacy Team

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Battling chronic illness can be exhausting, painful, and debilitating, which is why it’s essential to create a support team outside of the healthcare system.

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The reality of chronic disease is that we often cannot do what we normally could due to debilitating symptoms. Therefore, we need our community to rally around us and offer support.

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You need people who can advocate for you when doctors won’t listen, help schedule appointments, and research solutions so you can receive the care you need, especially when you don’t have the energy or ability to do it yourself.

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These can be the people you cry with, vent to, take you to appointments, make food for you, and check on you. This might include a spouse, partner, neighbor, church community, friends, family, a Facebook group, or a support group—or even a furry friend.

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Don't be afraid to ask for help in specific ways

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Let your advocacy team know you need help picking up the kids from school or want someone to watch a funny movie with to take your mind off of your symptoms. These people want to support you, the hardest part is letting them.

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Initially, I resisted accepting help during my health struggles. I perceived myself as a burden, fueled by pride in my independence. I deeply regret not being vulnerable to let someone witness my struggles and support me in my weakness. If this doesn't resonate, consider that you would offer the same support to someone else in reverse circumstances. So, allow them the opportunity to help you.

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Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Solutions and hope are always available. If you're curious about how holistic nutrition can meet your needs, I’d be happy to discuss your health goals and learn more about you in my free 15 minute consultation. Schedule an appointment below.

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Disclaimer: This is not medical advice and should be used for educational purposes only.

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