In this episode, psychologists Sally and Seona unpack why so many people with chronic health conditions fall into people-pleasing, over-functioning, or peacekeeping roles — and the huge emotional and physical cost that comes with it.

We explore where these patterns come from (spoiler: childhood roles, culture, trauma, gender expectations, and fear of conflict), why they often intensify after a chronic illness diagnosis, and why shifting out of them feels both necessary and terrifying.

Most importantly, we talk about what healthier boundaries actually look like, how to start disappointing people in small, safe ways, and why reclaiming your energy is not selfish — it’s survival.

If you’ve ever found yourself saying yes when every fibre of your body was saying no… this one’s for you.

⁠⁠⁠Livology (Psychology - Private Practice)⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course)⁠⁠⁠

⁠But You’ll Be OK (Online Course)⁠

⁠Webinars and Resources⁠

If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit⁠ ⁠Befrienders Worldwide⁠⁠.

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