The Uncertainty of Good Days and Bad Days

Autoimmune conditions can make it hard to predict how you’ll feel from one day to the next. This piece explores the impact of that unpredictability.
written by
Joshua Braines-Mead
reviewed by
published
08 Jul 2021
Autoimmune conditions can make it hard to predict how you’ll feel from one day to the next. This piece explores the impact of that unpredictability.

Living Without Consistency

One of the hardest parts of autoimmune conditions is the lack of consistency. A good day can be followed by a sudden crash, making it difficult to commit to plans or routines.

Guilt, Pressure, and Expectations

Fluctuating energy and symptoms can create guilt — especially when you have to cancel plans or adjust expectations. You may feel pressure to “make the most” of good days, which can lead to burnout.

How Uncertainty Affects Identity

Not knowing how you’ll feel tomorrow can impact your sense of self. You might struggle to recognise yourself or feel disconnected from who you were before symptoms began.

Building Compassion for Yourself

Learning to live with uncertainty often means practising self-compassion. Giving yourself permission to rest, change plans, or ask for support can help create a sense of steadiness, even when symptoms remain unpredictable.

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