Understanding Illness Stigma

How Society’s Views on Sickness Affect Our Feelings

Do you feel stigmatised by society because you have an illness?

Yes?

If yes, I hear you, as sometimes that’s how I feel.

Society tends to view illness as a vulnerability.

And one thing I’m not is…

Vulnerable.

And I’m sure that’s the same for you too!!!

Now although I’m not vulnerable, the thought of people putting me in the vulnerable box can at times affect the way I see myself, especially when I’m having days when my illness decides to kick my butt!

How Society Stigmatises Illness

I think the root of illness stigma lies in cultural beliefs that equate being sick with weakness or inadequacy. 

And, indeed, media and societal narratives often glorify ‘good’ health and productivity.

If we experience ill health, which makes us unproductive and unable to work, then we’re less than.

For chronic illness sufferers like me, who don’t fit the ideal of being ‘normal’ this makes us feel undervalued.

I’m often reminded when in pain that my illness has impacted my purpose in life.

And the last thing I need to see or hear is people further demoralising me.

Dealing with Guilt from Sickness Stigma

Guilt, a biggie!

I’ve spent a long time feeling guilty for being ill.

 

• I can’t work
• I have less energy
• I’m in pain daily 
• Pain and fatigue prevent me from being present for my family

This often brings on a lot of guilt.

And this guilt has been brought on by a lifetime of viewing illness as being ‘less than’.

This, at times, causes me to question my self-worth. 

Do you feel like this too?

If you do, then you and I must recognise that these feelings aren’t due to us failing on a personal level.

Instead, this is us responding to external pressures!!!

Conclusion

Understanding the stigma around illness is vital to address the guilt and negative perceptions we face. 

We may not be able to change societal views on illness.

But we can change our perception of illness.

We can have more empathy towards ourselves.

And we can stop the self-judgment. 

For many of us, illness is not something we’ve imposed on ourselves; it’s just the cards we’ve been dealt.

So let’s start by changing societal views on illness by first embracing self-love and ignoring the opinions of those who have a narrow view of what health and productivity should be.

Cheryl  🙂 👋

References

• Pub Med Central –  Disease-Related Stigma, Stigmatizers, Causes, and Consequences: A Systematic Review

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