“Stop Using Your Condition as an Excuse” (and Other Helpful Judgements)

What happens when the hardest part of living with a chronic illness isn’t just the symptoms — but the judgement?In this episode of But You Look So Good, Sally and Seona unpack the comments so many people with chronic health conditions hear: “It’s all in your head,” “Maybe if you exercised more,” “You’re a hypochondriac,” and “Stop using your condition as an excuse.”They explore the psychological impact of disbelief, invalidation and gaslighting, and why these comments can create shame, self-doubt and burnout. Drawing from both professional and lived experience, they discuss practical strategies for protecting your mental health, setting boundaries, and learning to trust yourself again — even when others don’t understand your reality.⁠⁠⁠Livology (Psychology - Private Practice)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course)⁠⁠⁠⁠But You’ll Be OK (Online Course)⁠⁠Webinars and Resources⁠If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit⁠ ⁠Befrienders Worldwide⁠⁠.⁠⁠Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast⁠⁠