This question has been battling in my mind for decades, when I have been fighting with my own obligations and choices. Although the responsibilities are not described in any law (at least in Finland) it is still an important topic in our lives.
I have made major choices and taken major steps in taking care of my health, simply because I want to live a life where I am healthy and I am the captain, not my sickness. The Crohn´s disease, Colitis ulcerosa, also called IBD (irritable bowel disease) what I have can be an extremely difficult and serious sickness, no matter how well you take care yourself.
I did wake up and started to take care of my health, regarding IBD pretty late, just when I turned 35 years.
I stumbled for over 20 years with difficult symptoms, so the shift didn´t happen overnight. I have now managed to live a great life, without medicines for over 15 years and I am extremely happy and proud for the choices I have made.
So, what are patients own responsibilities?
That is a big question and not an easy one to answer. It depends on where you live, what is your economic situation, your upbringing, your surroundings, your access to fresh water and healthy food *, your mental status, your stress level, your sleeping rhythm and so on.
A doctor once said to me that the way you handle your sickness demands exceptional discipline and not many are ready to step out from their comfort zone, even if it gives them a better life.
If you want to read the whole story here is how: ”The Naked Gut – true story” my book is available in Amazon worldwide. https://www.amazon.com/Naked-Gut-color-version-story/dp/9529408439
The book offers inspiration, hope and tools and is intended for anyone who seeks a better health for their lives.
In serious conditions like Crohn´s, always seek medical advice from your Doctor.
* Researchers examined healthy food availability and diet quality among Baltimore City and Baltimore County, Md., residents and found that availability of healthy foods was associated with quality of diet and 46 percent of lower-income neighborhoods had a low availability of healthy foods.
