What we tell ourselves during flare-ups is really important to consider. Because stress was one of the most common flare-up triggers reported by our community, which is not surprising since it can be hard on our bodies, minimizing added stress during flare-ups is crucial. This includes physical stress and emotional stress. Given how physically and emotionally challenging flare-ups are, this is not easy.
Preparing ahead of time can be helpful! Having a list of go-to coping mechanisms and forms of self-care that we can engage in, ready to use when needed can be a great start. Working with a
trained mental health professional can also be helpful (such as a licensed counselor or clinical psychologist), to help us make sure we are minimizing catastrophic thinking and coping in healthy ways. Catastrophic thinking is more common when in flare-ups and can include thoughts such as “I am never going to get better,” “I am always going to be this sick,” “All of this is my fault,” “I am always a burden,” and many other thoughts that can create added stress.
What you tell yourself and how you talk to yourself absolutely has an impact on your mind and your body. Talking to ourselves in loving ways, with compassion, certainly takes time, but the time invested can be very beneficial. Our
Self-compassion section may also have some tips you may benefit from, and we also have a section entitled
Reframing Thoughts which may provide you with some helpful tips and strategies. It is important to note that despite these suggestions, working one-on-one with a
trained mental health professional can give you more insight into what you may be struggling with, allowing you to shower yourself with more compassion, empathy, kindness, patience, and less judgment and criticism.
