Invisible illnesses often come with invisible burdens. People may struggle to explain why they cannot participate in certain activities or why their energy levels fluctuate so dramatically. This constant need to justify their limitations can lead to emotional exhaustion, frustration, and shame.
Counseling does not take away pain or erase fatigue, but it changes how people respond to them. By working with a therapist, individuals can learn to separate their sense of identity from their illness. This distinction is important because it allows room for growth, joy, and meaning outside of the limitations of symptoms.
Dating while managing a chronic illness will never be easy, but by being honest, setting boundaries, taking care of your emotional well-being, and seeking professional support, you can build strong relationships that honor both your health and your desire for love.
