I Am More Than My Diagnosis | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

I Am More Than My Diagnosis

A behind the scenes look at the struggles of separating yourself from the diagnosis.

113
I Am More Than My Diagnosis
aptelresearch

If any of you have been diagnosed with with any sort of health condition; whether it be big or small, mental or physical, recent or a while ago, you can probably agree with what I am about to share. Here are some of the steps we face as we get passed the diagnosis and finally re-identify as ourselves again.

1.Understanding What Is Happening To Your Body...

The first important step is to gather as much info as you can from doctors, research and other sources so you can know what is happening, what will and could happen, and what you need to do.

2. Acceptance...

The most important but also the hardest step. It is hard to make any progress without first accepting the situation you are in. Once you accept you will be more open-minded and more willing to move forward.

3.Baby-steps...

Once you understand and accept the diagnosis you can figure out what steps you to take to figure out how to make it work for you.

4. Strength...

When you start on you your journey, you and the people around you will begin to realize how much strength you have. This a key to getting back on track and knowing what you can do if you put your mind to it.

5.Establishing Boundaries...

With steps in place and a knowledge of your strength it is helpful to set up boundaries, so you know how far you can push yourself without overdoing it.

6.Confidence...

Like almost anything, confidence is key. It may be hard to regain confidence, but don't give up. With confidence you will be able to overcome anything thrown your way.

7. Stress Relievers...

I cannot stress enough how important it is to have a healthy way to relieve stress. It can be a very stressful and frustrating journey and it is necessary to manage that stress. It will be beneficial to moving forward passed the diagnosis, rather than backwards.

8. Distance From The Symptoms...

Almost any diagnosis will come with both physical and mental symptoms. Although you may feel them all the time, it is important to distance them from you in a way that you can understand they are just happening to you and they are not who you are.

9. Preparing How To Describe Your Diagnosis To Others...

This can often feel like you are preparing for a presentation, but it is helpful to know what to say a head of time, so you can tell them in a way that they will understand. It also helps to make you feel more comfortable and not like you are being put on the spot by their questions.

10. Accommodating Life Changes...

Everything above are ways we have to accommodate what is happening in our lives. It is not easy, but in the end it is worth it because it helps us feel more comfortable in our own skin, which matters the most.

I want to end this article by saying that I am proud of everyone who has gone through this, and to say good-luck and stay strong to them, as well as everyone else currently going through or just starting this process.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

14073
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

6135
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

4544
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

3992
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments