Does anyone find it difficult making friends when you are chronically ill

Tammyjane33

I'd just like to share my experience with you all. I have a rare disease and I find life extremely difficult at times. In flare ups, which happen alot) I spend alot of my time in bed in pain so it's often difficult to go out and meet people when poorly because pain suddenly comes on at any point and recently especially through covid I feel it's awkward speaking to people and explaining that I'm chronically ill, usually I don't have difficulty in making friends it just seems that after I've helped, supported them, etc they tend to take my mind, good hearted nature for granted. Does anyone else feel this happens to them alot?
I will look forward to speaking to you
❤️Tammy 

rubin16

I find it hard finding and keeping friends, and don't tell alot about my condition becuase of judgement. I have Autism and Schizophrenia and find people seem to think i'm crazy and going to murder them or something becuase of my condition. TV has had a big impact on this and my conditions have a stigma.

I rarely speak to anyone to be honest, the only person I have spoke to all day is my step dad or through this forum, So naturally don't have many friends.

Lisatho11987777

If people can't accept you as you are then they aren't worth knowing true friends accept you as you are x

Tammyjane33

Hi @woodbine I'm sorry to hear that this has happened to you, I've had this happen to me alot in the past so I can relate and understand how sad it can make people with an illness feel. Not only do we have to accept our illnesses /conditions, and adapt and change some parts but then we lose people and sometimes face judgment.
People seem to want my help or turn to me when they are struggling which I don't mind because I consider myself to be a good person who's kind and likes to help others but just lately people are taking advantage of my good nature. I'm always here for a chat if you need a friend ?

Tammyjane33

@rubinheath16 hi its nice to virtually meet you, I believe we haven't spoken before so would be nice to learn more about you ?
I'm always open to making new friends so feel free to message me. My partner has autism so I have a good understanding of the things you may face and know how tough life can be sometimes.
Tammy 

Tammyjane33

Hi @lisathomas50 it's also nice to virtually meet you. I believe we also haven't spoken before so would be nice to talk to you.
Thankyou for the kind words and what you say is very true. 
Tammy 

Lisatho11987777

Hi @Tammyjane33 your welcome I am not always around as I work and I look after my mum who has dementia but I will always answer 

I have lupus and variations of lupus I have had it since the age of 18 I am 58 on Tuesday lol but I am young minded and don't act my age lol

Thank you for your message