What does the term invisible illness mean?

Invisible illnesses (like IBS) are those in which the sufferer may appear fine to others and family and friends may not see the impact of the illness. Validation (both of self and from others) can be vital in managing the emotional impact of an invisible illness. Feel free to read more here, if you haven't already: https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net/coping-and-diet/invisible-illness-dont-look-sick/ & https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net/living/ibs-sufferers-want-to-feel-validated/.

I often find myself having to describe what I'm dealing with to others, to still have them not get it. It's super frustrating! I just try and stay cool, calm, and understand that it's hard to see the invisible. I try and be the best advocate I can be so that maybe, they'll be kinder to the next person 💜 ~ Sawyer (team)