How many times have you heard someone being referred to as their disease? He’s asthmatic. She’s bipolar. They’re autistic.
Certainly, some of this misnaming is done for convenience. However, by referring to a person as their disease or condition, you are conveying that the emphasis is on the disease or condition and not the person.1
In the move to treat the whole person, not just the disorder or disability, terminology has changed.
You don’t want to become your illness
When you are diagnosed with an illness or condition, it can affect all facets of your life. You may change the way you eat. Your activity level may change. You could face limitations on doing things you used to do. It could affect your ability to work.
When you focus on dealing with elements and effects of it every day, it’s hard not to fall into identifying with your illness.
Illness identity states
There are four states that typically describe the effect of illness on identity. People can experience some or all of them at times.2
Rejection
You refuse to accept chronic illness as something that affects you. You’re in a state of resistance against the illness or its impact. When you reject your diagnosis, you may not follow treatment regimens or make lifestyle changes that support your health.
Engulfment
Engulfment is the opposite of rejection. You embrace your illness to the point of preoccupation. Other elements of your life, like hobbies and friendships, are ignored. Feelings of depression and anxiety may increase in this state.
Acceptance
This is the middle ground. Your illness is neither ignored nor obsessed about. It’s something that affects you. You may experience a normal amount of grief as you change your life to adapt to your needs. Feelings of depression and anxiety may decrease in this state.
Enrichment
You may experience positive life changes because of your illness. You may feel more resilient and stronger. Your appreciation for life may increase, and your sense of well-being may improve.
Living with illness or chronic conditions is complicated and often a lifelong journey. Maintaining your sense of self and identity beyond your diagnosis will improve your state of mind.
Whether you have a chronic condition or not, getting sleep is incredibly important and here’s why.
Published October 30, 2024
1https://www.nih.gov/nih-style-guide/person-first-destigmatizing-language
2https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/chronically-me/202207/4-illness-identity-states-and-how-work-them
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