It's
easy to lose one's confidence suffering Parkinson's or any serious illness.
When first diagnosed I came across
several people who'd been living with Parkinson's for some years and were
already experienced with the many symptoms and problems that occur as the
disease advances. One particular change puzzled me, which appeared to be a lack
of self esteem and confidence. Many people with Parkinson's stop socializing
and going out. The huge change is noticeable, when someone might originally have
been very sociable and the life and soul of the party.
Speaking
from experience, I can now understand how losing one's confidence and
retreating from the world can happen. I have written before about losing one's
voice, sounding hoarse, speaking quietly, along with a monotone and slow speech.
This would without doubt make anyone cautious of speaking when amongst others, causing
complications with socializing. It's not surprising that a Parkinson's patient
who once might have been vivacious and talkative, suddenly will sit quietly
like a wall flower.
One's
physical appearance can make one lose confidence. The shuffling when walking,
hunched shoulders, a stiffness and rigidity of movements, all make one self
conscious and uncomfortable entering a room a room full of strangers. If people
are unfamiliar with Parkinson's, they will not realise what is wrong, and sadly
through lack of empathy or understanding, as if one is contagious, they will
keep their distance. This is hurtful and enough to discourage any Parkinson's
sufferer from venturing out.
Eating
in company is another problem; the thought of dropping food, making a mess, and
taking longer to eat than anyone else, unfortunately aid losing confidence.
I am in this very situation
myself, and I do not have an answer for you. All I can do is tackle each day at
a time and do the best I can.
Though I do not have Parkinsons my husband does and what you have said certainly resonates with me . My usually charming husband has often become withdrawn around others. But I have found that a sense of humor goes a long way towards keeping our life happy and certainly saner.
ReplyDeletei too became that way,but thank g-d got over it,ive decided to make it other peoples problem,i didnt ask 4 itmi didnt buy it,and i sure as hell did not steal it,i say 2 society;this is who i am,deal,,if i can ,belive u me,so can u,so y"all get over it now!!!
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