In my early twenties, I developed severe chronic pain. As time went on, I stopped leaving the house or even getting dressed. Basically, I stopped living, and started a slow suicide.
My husband helped me seek out specialists across the U.S. I saw numerous doctors, had long hospital stays and tried many medications. I prayed for pain relief. Then, in 2016, I learned of an experimental surgery that was having good results, and as a last-ditch effort, I underwent the surgery. Afterwards, NINETY percent of my pain was gone. It was miraculous.
Unfortunately, even after the pain was lessened, I was the same depressed and debilitated person I had been before.
One year ago, I chose to give up the “sick person” mentality that I’d been clinging to. I developed a routine where I showered and got dressed every day. I made the bed, and put on makeup and jewelry. I started a hobby and also began volunteering. It gave me back purpose in my life.
Nothing had changed except my attitude. In therapy, I visualized putting that life as a sick person in a box and throwing it in a fire. Any time I think of going back to that mentality, I visualize throwing it in the fire.
My husband is excited to have his wife back, and I am so thankful he never gave up on me. I know you’ve told people that to see positive changes in their life, they need to lose the negative identity they’ve held on to. That’s exactly what I did, and now, my future is bright.
Jodi
I Gave Up My “Sick Person” Mentality
