I’ve been struggling with one illness after another this semester, and I’m honestly at a breaking point where I just want to give up. To provide some context, I returned to college about a year after being diagnosed with epilepsy. Managing the condition has been challenging enough, and I’ve been collaborating with accessibility services since I started.
What I didn’t anticipate was catching flu A, which completely knocked me out for almost two weeks. My brain has really not taken kindly to being unwell. I was bedridden for the first week, and now I’m dealing with persistent auras that make me anxious about attending class and the possibility of a medical emergency.
Being away from class—especially with all my courses being in person—stresses me out, even though my professors are aware of my situation. I’m feeling utterly defeated.
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re going through such a tough time. It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially with everything you’ve been dealing with. Managing your epilepsy while also facing illnesses like the flu can take a serious toll, both physically and emotionally.
First, please know that it’s okay to feel defeated; these challenges are not easy to navigate. Your health is the most important priority right now, and it’s commendable that you’re working with accessibility services to ensure you have the support you need.
If you’re feeling stressed about attending class, maybe reach out to your professors again and see if there are any remote options for participating. They might be more understanding than you expect, especially given your situation. You could also consider talking to a counselor on campus about how you’re feeling—having that support can make a big difference.
Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Lean on your support network, whether that’s friends, family, or other students who understand what you’re going through. Take things one step at a time, and be gentle with yourself. You’ve already shown incredible resilience in returning to school—just take it one day at a time. Hang in there!