In this episode of the MS Boost, psychotherapist Katie Willard Virant discusses the challenges of chronic illness. Katie, author of the 'Chronically Me' blog on Psychology Today, talks about societal pressure to appear well despite health struggles, as explored in her article 'Feeling Sick, Faking Well'opens in new tab. We delve into how this affects daily life and how people can begin to get support and show their true experience. We discuss how this can also be a factor in particular for mothers with MS, who may feel pressures to hide their health from family and children. Katie shares advice on authenticity and taking space despite chronic illness.
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Presenter
Katie Willard Virant is a psychotherapist who works with adults, adolescents and children on a variety of issues, including loss and grief, life transitions, and living with chronic illness. Katie is also the author of a monthly blog for Psychology Today entitled “Chronically Me. Emotional Landscape of Chronic Illness”.
Published April 2024



