Living with Lupus and The Impact of Invisible Diseases on Mental Health - with Amanda Chay

My Invisible Disease

Amanda, a resilient and determined advocate for invisible diseases, embarks on a mission to shatter misconceptions, forge connections, and reclaim her identity amidst the isolating journey of chronic illness. She has firsthand experience living with lupus, an incurable autoimmune disease. After going undiagnosed for 21 years, Amanda has gained a deep understanding of the challenges that come with seeking a diagnosis and navigating the early years of living with an invisible disease. She recently released a book called "The Girlfriend's Guide to Lupus" and is dedicated to sharing her experiences and offering support to others in similar situations. Amanda's journey is not only inspiring but also sheds light on the impact of invisible diseases on mental health. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to find hope and support within a community of understanding individuals.

https://amandachay.com/

Link to Book The Girlfriend's Guide to Lupus

We often live a reactive lifestyle when it comes to our health, but being preventative and taking care of ourselves early on can make a significant difference in our well-being. - Amanda Chay

Bio
Amanda Chay is an author, entrepreneur, and lifelong health nut who has helped countless businesses and individuals put their health first. With a master's degree in counseling and as the owner of a stress reduction and mindfulness training company, Amanda brings a wealth of expertise to her work. She is a member of the University of North Carolina Lupus Stakeholder Advisory Board and is a Lupus Foundation of American external affairs committee member for NC. When she’s not planning her next travel adventure with her daughters and husband, she’s drinking jasmine tea, teaching yoga, and giving book suggestions to anyone willing to listen. Learn more at AmandaChay.com.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover strategies for managing chronic illness and living a fulfilling life.

• Learn the importance of community support in navigating the challenges of invisible diseases.

• Explore the impact of invisible diseases on mental health and ways to prioritize self-care.

• Find inspiration and encouragement from others who have built supportive communities despite their invisible diseases.

• Gain insight into the unique challenges of living with invisible diseases and how to overcome them.

• Understand the importance of advocating for yourself and finding the right support system.

• Find validation and understanding as you hear stories from individuals who share your experiences.

Importance of community support

Community support plays a crucial role in navigating chronic illnesses. It offers a platform for sharing experiences, enhancing understanding, and cultivating validation for the daily struggles with invisible diseases. This support is vital for empowering individuals with chronic illnesses, helping them feel less alone, and providing a network of understanding that extends beyond their immediate environment.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit our website to listen to the full episode of the Invisible Disease podcast featuring Amanda Chay.
• Check out Amanda Chay's book, The Girlfriend's Guide to Lupus, for valuable insights and advice on living with lupus.

• If you suspect you may have an autoimmune disease like lupus, don't hesitate to seek medical advice and get a proper diagnosis.
• Take preventative measures to maintain your health, such as getting regular exercise, managing stress, and eating a balanced diet.
• If you're experiencing joint pain or other symptoms, consult with a rheumatologist or specialist to determine the cause and develop a treatment plan.
• Consider the impact of past traumas on your overall health and seek support or counseling if needed.
• Be mindful of the potential psychological impact of chronic illness and take steps to prioritize self-care and mental well-being.