Invisible Illness
“But, you look fine?!”
This is such a challenging comment when you have an invisible illness. Invisible illnesses are those that can’t be seen by others— from diabetes or depression to pelvic conditions, such as endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, or PCOS. While the intention is not harmful, the remark is invalidating and a reminder that your suffering isn’t truly seen. We have a human need to connect and process our lives with others— especially traumatic events. To be seen and understood helps us through difficult times. The continued shock or confusion by others can cause you to feel alienated, othered, and alone.
And I get it— I navigated the symptoms of endometriosis for many years. I didn’t have a diagnosis but I did have pain and bloating. I went from doctor to doctor without an answer. At times, I felt betrayed by my body. I also felt like I didn’t have power over my body— the very body I was living in day-to-day! And because my illness was invisible, I continued to live my life as though everything was fine— I just had some major, unexplained symptoms but don’t worry about me. Sound familiar?
When I think back to that difficult period— the appointments, the physical therapy, and the unknowns— I would have loved emotional support from someone who’d navigated the world with an invisible illness. I genuinely want to help you through this difficult time. We can discuss the mind-body connection— that stress and trauma are stored in the body. We can investigate your nervous system and how panic and anxiety might be intensifying your symptoms. I am trained in EMDR and use Mark Grant’s EMDR protocol and Gary Brother’s training for addressing chronic pelvic pain and working to give you relief from pain. I can support your grief around the changes your chronic condition has brought and help you move forward in your life.
If you would like support around your pelvic condition, please contact me here. I want to help you unpack the emotional aspects of chronic pelvic pain and conditions. I want you to be heard and supported, and to get back your joy.
