Managing Chronic Illness as a Minor: My Journey at JMU

Managing Chronic Illness as a Minor: My Journey at JMU

Living with a chronic illness is never easy, but as a minor, it can be especially challenging. As someone who has been managing a chronic illness since I was young, I understand the struggles that come with it. However, my experience at JMU has taught me how to manage my illness in a way that allows me to thrive academically, socially, and personally. In this blog article, I’ll share my journey of managing chronic illness as a minor at JMU and provide insights and tips for others in similar situations.

The Importance of Self-Advocacy

The first lesson I learned about managing my chronic illness at JMU was the importance of self-advocacy. No one knows your body better than you do, and it’s crucial to communicate your needs and limitations to professors, peers, and others. This may mean requesting accommodations such as extended deadlines or a quiet room during exams, but it’s essential to make sure that you have the support you need to succeed.

Working with JMU’s Disability Services

JMU has excellent disability services that are designed to support students with chronic illnesses and disabilities. As a student with a chronic illness, I’ve worked closely with JMU’s disability services to obtain accommodations, including extra time on exams and the ability to record lectures. I’ve also received support with finding accessible housing and navigating campus. For students struggling with chronic illness, it’s essential to work with disability services to create a plan that meets your needs.

The Importance of Self-Care

Managing a chronic illness is an ongoing process, and self-care plays a crucial role in it. It’s essential to prioritize self-care activities such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in physical activity. For me, this has meant scheduling regular appointments with my healthcare provider to monitor my illness and stay on top of treatment. It’s crucial to prioritize self-care activities even in the midst of a busy academic schedule.

Cultivating a Supportive Community

Finally, cultivating a supportive community has been key to my success in managing my chronic illness at JMU. Whether it’s friends who understand my illness and offer emotional support or professors who are willing to work with me to ensure my academic success, having a supportive community has been crucial. JMU offers a range of support services, including counseling services, peer mentoring, and disability services, which can help students build a strong support system.

In Conclusion

Managing a chronic illness as a minor is difficult, but it’s not impossible. By advocating for yourself, working with disability services, prioritizing self-care, and cultivating a supportive community, you can thrive academically, socially, and personally. JMU offers a range of resources to help students with chronic illness and disabilities succeed, and it’s important to take advantage of these services. Remember: you are not alone, and with the right support, you can manage your chronic illness and achieve your goals.