15 Memes That Nail What It's Like Working With a Chronic Illness

The Mighty

After reading and seeing these memes, I decided this doesn't just apply to having to work with a chronic illness. I can see these applying to Ian as he had to go to school and just do things on a daily basis. He may not have known or understood what he was feeling and how to explain it at the time...but I would venture to say that this is it. In addition, I know that over the years of caring for Ian, I and I'm sure Brian and Becca at times, felt all of these as well.

Living with a chronic illness can often feel like a full-time job in itself, and many of those who struggle with illness work at a paid job as well. Working can have many benefits, such as money (of course), but also health insurance, social interaction, personal development and a sense of responsibility. For some, work may be an important part of your identity or give you a chance to do something you’re passionate about. But it can be difficult to keep up with all the responsibilities and expectations of your job when you’re chronically ill and battling symptoms daily. You may struggle to complete tasks because of pain, fatigue or brain fog, or find that your job takes up to 100 percent of your energy - leaving you unable to participate in other areas of life as much as you would like.

Every chronic illness warrior’s situation is unique, and we all have different and valid reasons for working or not working - whether this decision is made due to choice or necessity. Just because someone works (whether it’s part-time or full-time) that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re “fine” or “not really sick.”

Life with chronic illness can be tough, and working with a chronic illness can be quite challenging. Sometimes the best way to cope with all the stress and exhaustion though is just to laugh. So, if you’re in need of a little humor to help you get through work and any symptoms you’re dealing with today, here are some memes you might enjoy.

When your symptoms are flaring but you still have to go to work:

When you’re too fatigued and brain-fogged to put together a nice outfit:

When every minute feels like an eternity:

When the brain fog is hitting hard:

When you’re barely functioning but still have a job to do:

When you feel even more tired after taking a nap in your car at lunch:

When people think because you work you must be “fine”:

When your symptoms kept you up all night:

When your illness results in frequent trips to the bathroom:

When you’re counting down the minutes until you can be reunited with your bed:

When it’s time for work but it also hurts to move:

When work takes 100 percent of your energy and you just don’t have the spoon to cook:

When your immune system doesn’t function at full capacity:

When you’re feeling sick at work but still have to put on a smile:

When you make it through another work day and get to collapse in bed: