Sick and Tired of Feeling Sick and Tired: Living with Invisible Chronic Illness

Book Being Reviewed:
Donoghue, P. J., & Siegel, M. E. (2000). Sick and tired of feeling sick and tired: Living with invisible chronic illness. New York, NY: W.W. Norton & Company

Reviewer:
Kimberly Perry

Genre:
Self-Help

Subject Headings:
Health/Wellness

Review:

Invisible chronic illnesses (ICIs) are not observable and people who suffer from them often look healthy. Examples of ICIs include: lupus, endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, fibromyalgia, crohns disease, and multiple sclerosis. People with ICIs are often dismissed, misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or treated in other negative ways by medical professionals, mental health professionals, employers, family members, and friends. Correct diagnoses are often reached only after long, distressing journeys. Mary Siegel experienced that journey first-hand when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She and Paul Donoghue joined forces to write this book which validates and normalizes the ICI patient experience. The authors then help patients develop self-awareness and empower patients by teaching coping strategies and tips for communicating effectively with doctors and loved ones.

This book is a must read for patients who live with invisible chronic illnesses. The authors truly understand the complexities of ICIs and the physical, mental, and spiritual toll they can take on a person. Reading this book may help some to feel heard and validated for the first time by someone who truly gets it. This book is also a must read for medical and mental health professionals, caregivers, family, and friends who treat, care for, and/or love people who suffer from invisible chronic illnesses. This book paints a picture of what living with ICIs is often like for the patient. It can inspire compassion and help provide a better understanding of the ICI patients needs.