Self-esteem can take a real blow with chronic pain. I never thought much about it until my psychologist mentioned it to me. You sort of endure in this state of low self-esteem and low self-worth. Like it is a normal state of being. There wasn't much research to be found on the subject even though... Continue Reading →
Chronic illness and perception of control When you read the the previous post it sounds ideal. Having this resilience and positive coping strategies to fling out with any stressful situation. Dealing with negative emotions. Sounds awesome. But from my experience coping is a process not an endpoint. I am quite aware of one very poignant... Continue Reading →
The perception of control we have is necessary for our well-being and living in the world. It is sort of a necessary fiction we tell ourselves. When you think of it philosophically there isn’t much control we truly have over anything. But perception is reality for our brains. Perceived personal control Perceived personal control is... Continue Reading →
Setbacks when it comes to chronic illness seem to just be inevitable. Sometimes they are not setbacks at all but our new state of the normal. And sometimes they are short setbacks. Other times they are substantial setbacks. A setback with our health can be caused by many things. A medication change, a stressor or... Continue Reading →
I got my lumbar puncture results back and a call from my neurologist. I do in fact have Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This has been after years of abnormal MRIs with lesions but my neurologist insisting I didn't present with MS. Because I have fibromyalgia and chronic migraine- so a lot of overlap in symptoms. And... Continue Reading →
I got a Lumbar Puncture, also known as a spinal tap, on Friday. It is done on the lower back in the lumbar region. It was done as an outpatient. I went in, I didn't even have to change into one of those horrible hospital gowns. They got me to lie on my side with... Continue Reading →
Chronically Nikki 