The Unseen Battle: Living with a Chronic Illness
Many of you know me as Dr Ranjot Bhogal, a Counselling Psychologist who spends my days helping others navigate the complexities of life. But today, I want to take off my professional hat and share a more personal story – a story about the unseen battle I fight every day: living with a chronic illness and the shadows it can cast.
At 16, I was unexpectedly diagnosed with Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the blood's ability to clot. It was a whirlwind of emotions – fear, confusion, and a sudden awareness of my own mortality. I learned to manage my ITP alongside the usual teenage drama, but it wasn't always easy.
For the next nineteen years, however, I achieved a period of blissful stability. ITP became a quieter companion, a part of my history but not necessarily my present. Then, just last week, ITP decided to make a forceful comeback. I required an urgent trip to A+E for tests and a new round of emergency treatment which was a stark reminder that chronic illness can be an unpredictable foe.
This relapse has been a humbling experience. It's a punch in the gut that life isn't always a linear path, and even seemingly controlled conditions can resurface. But here's the thing: I refuse to let ITP define me.
As a psychologist, I understand the importance of resilience. I'm using the same tools I offer my clients – mindfulness practices, connecting with loved ones, and focusing on the good things in life, no matter how small.
This experience has also given me a profound sense of empathy for everyone battling an unseen illness. It's a powerful reminder that many people fight silent wars within their bodies, a truth often hidden beneath a smile.
But chronic illness can also have cruel companions – a heavy cloak of anxiety and depression. The constant uncertainty about my health, the fear of another relapse, it can all weigh you down.
However, here are a few things I’m doing to stay positive:
Prioritising self-care: Prioritising sleep, healthy eating, and exercise is essential for maintaining your mental and physical well-being.
Practicing gratitude: Focusing on the things I am thankful for, big and small.
Connecting with my support system: Talking with loved ones, and leaning on their strength.
The journey with ITP and its cruel companions may not be easy, but I'm determined to face it with courage and compassion. Perhaps by sharing my story, I can offer a glimmer of hope or a sense of solidarity to someone else fighting their own unseen battle.
Here's to resilience, to the power of community, and to finding strength in the face of adversity.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as a substitute for professional advice.
