What is a chronic illness?
A chronic disease is a long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured. For many young adults, a chronic illness might mean frequent doctor’s appointments, lots of medication, and/or a suppressed immune system causing numerous minor illnesses. Some common chronic illnesses in the young adult population include diabetes, asthma, HIV/AIDS, cancer, Crohns disease, heart disease, epilepsy, and others. For some young adults, the stress of managing their chronic illness can be isolating and distressing. If this sounds like something you might be experiencing, we are here to help.
- Adherence: Adherence means staying on-track with one’s treatment routine. Whether it’s taking a daily medication, eating a certain diet, or visiting the doctor on certain dates, it can be difficult for a college student to keep track. Sometimes, when moving to a new place and starting a new routine, it is common for individuals with chronic illnesses to lose track of their treatment routine. Adding medications to the long to-do list you have for classes can add an extra stressor to your life. But it is important to know that others also struggle with keeping up.
- Fitting In: Sometimes it can be difficult to feel like you fit in with others when you have a chronic illness. It might seem like others don’t understand what you’re going through or you might feel unable to share your illness story with peers due to sigma. Making friends when having a secret like a chronic illness can be difficult too as you might feel like you’re not able to be your true self. But it is important to know that there are other students on campus who also have a chronic illness and share in your experiences.
- Absences: College students with chronic illnesses might have frequent absences because of pain, doctor’s appointments, or treatment needs. This can jeopardize grades in classes. Speak to the Academic Resource Center if you have any concerns about absences due to a chronic illness. They can advocate on your behalf and help you organize your routine.
- Adjustment: Adjusting to college life can be extra-stressful when also managing a chronic illness. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to have so much going on in your life. This is a common feeling amongst young adults with a chronic illness and it is important to know that you are not alone. We have some tips for making the adjustment process a little easier.
Chronic Illness Information