Navigating the Holidays with Chronic Illness: A Personal Journey

Embracing the Challenges of the Season

The holidays are a busy time of year. They can make even the healthiest people feel exhausted. For those of us living with chronic illnesses or autoimmune conditions, the struggle is even greater. This year, I flew home for Thanksgiving for just a few days, but it took me a whole week to recover afterward. I absolutely loved being home and seeing my family, especially since it had been over a year since my last visit. However, the drastic weather changes and being constantly on the go left me so drained that I found myself dozing off during Thanksgiving dinner!

Thankfully, my family understands my situation. I've learned to express how I feel and not push myself too hard. I remember when I was first diagnosed. I tried everything to keep moving and going, just so I wouldn’t be treated any differently because of my ulcerative colitis. But when I got home, I would be completely out of commission for days, missing work and unable to tackle even the simplest daily chores. It was so disheartening. Before my diagnosis, I was like the Energizer Bunny—I could just keep going and going! Now, I’m lucky if I can make it through a whole day without needing a nap.

The Emotional Toll of the Holidays

The holidays can also be a challenging time for those of us with chronic illnesses. It can feel very isolating and even depressing when we can’t show up the way we want to. Baking, cooking, and attending holiday parties used to bring me so much joy. Every year, I would cook a pumpkin, purée it, and freeze it just so I could bake a ton of fall desserts. But now, my hands hurt so badly from rheumatoid arthritis that doing it all on my own is impossible. The amount of work would require a full day or two to recover from. Thankfully, since I flew in, I didn’t have to cook or bake anything this time. Don’t get me wrong; I love cooking and baking! I just had to learn that I can’t do it for large events anymore.

Finding Support and Sharing Experiences

I would love to hear from others who are navigating the holidays with chronic illnesses. How do you manage to get through this time of year? What tips or tricks do you have? The best thing I did was forgive myself for not being able to do the things I used to. I learned to allow myself breaks when I needed them. I’ve also become very vocal with my friends and family about my limitations, and I prioritize my well-being. This wasn’t easy for me to learn, but it has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for myself.

Self-Care During the Holidays

Self-care is essential, especially during the holiday season. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, but we must remember to take care of ourselves. Here are some self-care tips that have helped me:

1. Set Realistic Expectations

It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself. Understand that you may not be able to do everything you used to. It’s okay to say no to certain events or activities. Prioritize what truly matters to you.

2. Create a Rest Schedule

Plan your rest periods. If you know you have a busy day ahead, schedule in time to recharge. Even a short nap can make a big difference in how you feel.

3. Communicate Your Needs

Don’t hesitate to communicate your needs to your family and friends. Let them know what you can and cannot do. Most people will be understanding and supportive.

4. Focus on What You Can Do

Instead of dwelling on what you can’t do, focus on what you can do. Maybe you can participate in a small way or enjoy the company of loved ones without overexerting yourself.

5. Find Joy in Simple Moments

Sometimes, the simplest moments can bring the most joy. Whether it’s watching a holiday movie or enjoying a warm cup of tea, cherish those little things.

A Message of Hope

As we navigate this holiday season, I pray that everyone dealing with chronic illness can love themselves first. Enjoy the time you have with friends and family, or however the holidays work for you. Remember, it’s okay to take a step back and prioritize your health.

Let’s support each other in this journey. Together, we can create a safe and nurturing community where we can share our experiences and find motivation to live our best lives despite health challenges.

Love,

Dare to Fly