Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: How do we seperate ourselves from our illness?

Not that I'm an expert on this subject, as I do struggle with this so often, but I do have some advice. I spent quite a few years really struggling, mostly because I couldn't help but dwell on being sick. I felt like everything was piling up on me and I was so overwhelmed. I decided that IBS will NOT define me. I take a few steps to make sure this doesn't happen. First, when I feel great, I live life to the fullest! The times my belly feel good, or even just OK, I get out of my house, enjoy time with my friends and husband, etc... I always make sure to do something fun. The days when I am really sick, I let myself cry, moan, scream, etc. This way I am sure not to 'ignore' it...which can be a problem. I acknowledge how sucky it is to have a chronic illness. I do usually pamper myself with bubble baths and everything when I feel crummy. When I start to feel Ok again, I jump back into life. It's a VERY scary jump. I cannot describe the little panic attacks I have had when I know I need to jump back in but am questioning if I am well enough to...It's difficult, but I always have made it.
But, if you're having symptoms so often, which is what it sounds like, I am not sure if this helps you at all. But I do highly suggest figuring out what you want with your life. This summer I decided to start my own music studio. It's been a dream of mine for years and I went for it. I also was at my sickest this summer, with a 4 day hospitalization. I did not let this stop me. When I'm not feeling well, instead of being upset about it, I grab my laptop and work on some lesson plans. I have found that the studio is really my motivator at the moment to get me over this hurdle.
I hope this helps a little, I just really know where you are coming from and it's SO hard to separate yourself from your illness. I've also found it helpful that my friends know about my belly and we all laugh about it together when we go out to eat or something...I always keep it light hearted...
Good luck, hope you feel better emotionally and physically!

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IBS-A

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