What is Autoimmune Awareness Month?
Each year, March is recognized internationally as Autoimmune Awareness Month. It is dedicated to spreading recognition of autoimmune diseases to educate and empower individuals in our communities. By recognizing the impact of chronic illnesses, it can help advance research in the field of medicine, spread awareness, and create hope. And it starts with you – did you know your story can make a difference?
Autoimmune Awareness Month recognizes diseases such as:
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Crohn’s disease
- Celiac disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Graves’ disease
- Psoriasis
- Sjogren’s
- Hashimotos
- Vasculitis
- Myasthenia gravis
- MS
- Type 1 diabetes
When we know more, we can be kinder to ourselves if we have it and offer better support to those living with these conditions and break down stigma. Every bit of progress brings us closer to a future where autoimmune diseases don’t have as much power over people’s lives. If you have a chronic illness or are looking for more resources to better support a friend or a loved one with a chronic illness, our team at Supportegy is here to help. Each member of our team has walked in your shoes with our chronic illness journeys, and we want to help you connect to find meaning beyond chronic conditions.
How do we celebrate autoimmune awareness?
When we talk about commemorating your autoimmune disease journey, that doesn’t take away from the hard days but highlights resiliency. Navigating life with autoimmune diseases presents unique challenges that often go unnoticed. As part of that, celebrating is a way of advocating for us. So, what are things that we wish we knew about autoimmune diseases and conditions that aren’t talked about?
7 Things to Know about Living with an Autoimmune Disease
- We Are Still Whole People: Despite our health challenges, we are complete individuals deserving of respect, understanding, and compassion.
- Questions can challenge the validity of our condition: Autoimmune diseases aren’t always visible, but does that make them fake? Absolutely not. When others question the legitimacy of our illnesses, it can undermine our sense of self and leave us feeling isolated and misunderstood.
- Autoimmune diseases aren’t contagious: It’s not like chicken pox! Autoimmune diseases are not contagious. They are complex conditions caused by the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking its tissues.
- Lifestyle Changes Are Significant: Adjusting to new norms due to health restrictions isn’t easy. These changes impact every aspect of our lives, requiring patience, understanding, and support.
- Chronic Fatigue Isn’t Laziness: Chronic fatigue associated with autoimmune diseases is debilitating and not a reflection of laziness. It’s a real and significant symptom that affects our daily functioning.
- Appearance Doesn’t Reflect Inner Struggle: Just because we may look “normal” on the outside doesn’t mean we feel that way on the inside. Pain and fatigue often lurk beneath the surface, invisible to others.
- Chronic Illnesses Manifest Differently in Everyone: Autoimmune diseases are not one-size-fits-all. Each person’s experience is unique, with symptoms varying widely from one individual to another.
Where are you on your journey? At Supportegy Wellness Coaching, we’re here to help you discover how to move past your chronic condition being your identity to living a meaning-filled life beyond it. Not sure how? Reach out today to get connected to wellness coaching.
How do you spread awareness about autoimmune diseases?
You can spread awareness this month and throughout the year in many different ways. Whether you are on your journey to living fully beyond a chronic illness or you are supporting a friend, find a way that speaks to you!
- Join with Others: There is strength in numbers! Join online communities or local chronic illness support groups where you can connect with others facing similar challenges and share insights and support.
- Encourage Self-Care and Wellness Practices: Advocate for the importance of self-care activities like exercise, healthy eating, and stress management. Share tips and techniques that have helped you manage symptoms and improve your well-being.
- Express Your Journey Through Art: Get creative! Whether through painting, writing, or music, use art to convey your experiences with autoimmune diseases in a powerful and relatable way.
- Look Out for Online Events or Start a Fundraiser: Get involved in virtual events or a fundraiser in your community to raise awareness and funds for autoimmune diseases research and support services.
- Get Screened: Knowledge is power! Encourage others to get screened for autoimmune diseases, especially if they’re experiencing symptoms or have a family history.
- Offer Emotional Support: Be a listening ear and a source of empathy for those navigating autoimmune diseases. Share your experiences and validate their feelings, letting them know they’re not alone.
- Share Your Story on Social Media: Take to platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter to share your journey with autoimmune diseases. Your story could inspire others and break down barriers. Get started today by joining the Supportegy Facebook group!
- Share Personal Stories of Triumph and Resilience: Share your victories and moments of growth in the face of autoimmune diseases. Inspire hope and positivity by demonstrating that it’s possible to thrive despite the challenges.
Living with an autoimmune disease can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Join the movement to raise awareness and support for autoimmune diseases! Connect with others, share your story, and be part of the solution. Take the next step by joining a chronic illness coaching session where you can gain valuable insights, support, and guidance on navigating life with autoimmune conditions. Together, we can make a difference and empower each other on this journey toward wellness.