Non-Medication Victories

 

Many of the victories in dealing with an illness characterized by chronicity include medication wins. 

Finding a medication that works--win!

Choosing a medication that has few side effects--winner!

Having insurance coverage for the medication that works--solid win!

But there are victories to be had that have nothing to do with medication for an illness that is chronic. Are they life wins? Are they coping strategies? Not sure, but I have begun to call them non-medication victories or NMVs. 

Here are a few NMVs for me:

Discovering any pattern of pain or relief--victory!

Pursuing healthy outlets for frustration and pain--win!

Identifying physical comfort strategies--definite win!

I will take the medication and non-medication victories where I can and keep going. Maybe the win column will look better or even crowded over time!