I haven't even met this person yet, but I've talked to her several times and I'm already feeling judged. I have a lot in common with her, but I REALLY don't need a person that wants to try and motivate me to "get better". I've been to therapy and I'm 100% sure that while depression might be a component of my RSD/CRPS, that depression is not the CAUSE of it. I don't need or want to compete for whose health is worse. And the message that we're responsible for not getting better, by not having thought positively enough, or worked hard enough at getting better, truly makes me angry. I've had this disorder for 14 years, and I haven't given up yet, but I also KNOW my own BODY. I have spread to my jaw for the second time and while I hope it will go back into remission, I know there's a possibility that that won't happen. --And that's nothing to do with my MOTIVATION. I really believe that people want to believe they have more control over their health than they actually do and it scares them to death that something might actually be beyond their control.

On top of all this, this person wants to apply for SSDI, which seems more than a little hypocritical--because hey with a little positive thinking shouldn't she be well enough to continue working? I loved my job and spent YEARS trying to adapt and figure out a way to even be able to work part time or develop a business that was workable--and I finally had to accept that it just isn't realistic at this point.

I don't want to feel like I have to explain or justify my health. Any coping strategies for dealing with these type of people would be appreciated.

End Rant!

Thanks in advance.