I have a good friend who was tested for POTS. POTS can cause changes in heartrate, blood pressure, and vertigo, all due to autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Her doctor booked her in for testing (which I didn't know they had available).

Within a day of the testing, she learned she didn't test positive for POTS. This is someone with other complex chronic pain and illnesses. The lack of that diagnosis still hit her hard. I could relate to that fragility and the invalidation that comes when I believe something is true and learn it isn't and the fear that arises around "What is true? Is this psychosomatic? What about these symptoms? Will anyone believe me?"

Invalidated: the root of the word "invalid" is the word used in French for disabled. When we aren't given support, recognition, support, other's recognition, support, when we aren't feeling seen, it is disabling.

Later, my friend saw her primary care physician. He said, "you are not your diagnosis." The lack of a diagnosis does not take away your symptoms. Just because our diagnostic tools have not yet caught up with your symptoms, you don't need to feel invalidated. If you are still searching, for your diagnosis -- I'm sorry. However, it doesn't change the fundamental truth that you know is happening. No one test can/should define you. We have one another. Let's support each other, help us feel seen and acknowledge the truth of our circumstances.

I'm Annette Leonard, speaker, coach, and sick person who believes that my illnesses do not define me. If health is the absence of disease and wellness is the presence of wholeness, then no matter what your disease status, we can work toward your wellness, your wholeness.

Whether or not you are ever "healthy" on paper, you can be well. Join me and others on the path back to wholeness at AnnetteLeonard.com. Whether you are a person experiencing chronic illness or are someone who loves or serves people with chronic illness I have great resources here on this channel or on my website for you.