The Hidden Strengths of People with Chronic Medical Conditions
- Pholo Ramothwala
- Jan 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 4
Living with a chronic illness-whether it's HIV, diabetes, hypertension, mental health conditions, cancer, or others-means navigating a life where much of the struggle is invisible. Often, what people see is just the surface, while the true challenges remain hidden beneath. If you know someone living with a chronic illness or you just want to better understand their experiences-this is for you. Here's a look into the “less visible” realities and hidden strengths of those managing life with chronic conditions.
What You See vs. What We Hide.
What you see: Someone resting, staying in bed, or taking naps.
What we hide: The frustration, guilt, and boredom of being forced to rest because of exhaustion from diabetes, the side effects of cancer treatments, or mental health conditions like depression.
What you see: Saying no to things, giving up activities, or doing less.
What we hide: The grief, sadness, and anger over lost opportunities, whether it's missing a family event due to HIV-related fatigue or avoiding activities that may worsen hypertension symptoms.
What you see: Someone socialising and going out.
What we hide: The pain, exhaustion, and recovery time needed afterwards-whether from diabetic neuropathy, the toll of cancer treatment, or the emotional strain of masking mental health struggles.
What you see: Someone looking well-dressed and put together.
What we hide: The immense effort it takes to get ready while managing chronic pain, nausea from medication, or symptoms like dizziness from hypertension.
What you see: Someone cancelling plans at the last minute.
What we hide: The unpredictable flare-ups and overwhelming guilt that comes with disappointing others-be it a diabetic sugar crash, mental health low, or severe hypertension episode.
What you see: Someone showing resilience and staying positive.
What we hide: The private moments of doubt, loneliness, and emotional struggle that often accompany conditions like HIV, cancer, or severe anxiety.
What you see: Someone excelling at work or school.
What we hide: The extraordinary effort required to keep up while battling chronic fatigue from diabetes, mental health conditions, or cancer treatments.
What you see: Someone eating differently or skipping meals.
What we hide: The discomfort of following strict dietary restrictions to manage diabetes or hypertension, or dealing with nausea caused by medication.
What you see: Someone walking slowly or avoiding physical activities.
What we hide: The chronic pain, dizziness, or fatigue that limits movement-whether due to diabetes complications, cancer, or hypertension.
What you see: Someone active on social media.
What we hide: The isolation and loneliness of being homebound due to flare-ups, trying to stay connected while managing HIV stigma or mental health challenges.
A Call for Empathy
Chronic illnesses like HIV, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and mental health conditions are often invisible to the outside world. What you see-our actions, appearances, and choices-is just a fraction of our reality. Behind every "no" or missed event is a story of resilience. Behind every smile is the strength to keep going. These invisible battles take courage, and they highlight the hidden strengths we carry every single day. By understanding these hidden realities, we can create a more empathetic world. Let's honour the courage it takes to live beyond these conditions and foster spaces where everyone feels supported and understood.
Remember, what you see is only the tip of the iceberg. Be kind.
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