Compromise

It was just over a year ago that I started reading The Myth of Normal and right away I insisted that Gabor Maté was wrong. I have been taught that chronic disease is a medical condition stemming from a chance combination of genetics. He claims that chronic illness is a consequence of how we live. After reading Maté’s The Myth of Normal, I came to the reluctant conclusion that chronic disease is not only a medical condition; it is very much helped or worsened by how we approach it.

So I have moderated my stance on Maté’s approach. I say this as a woman living with multiple sclerosis and on medication for Trigeminal Neuralgia. Those of you who have Trigeminal Neuralgia are familiar with the blinding pain accompanying that condition.

Medical procedures and medications have a much-needed and valuable place in our health care system. But I have learned from Maté and also reluctantly from first-hand experience over the past year, that my attitude, actions and beliefs influence my diseases as much as the actions and medications prescribed by my doctors.

My take-away is: Don’t stop taking your medicine and don’t turn your back on the medical system. Do try to adjust your attitude and learn alternate ways of coping.

What are your thoughts on this? Comment below.