Let’s get one thing straight: You know your body better than anyone else. You’ve been living with long COVID every single day, so if a doctor suggests your symptoms are “just in your head” or “not that bad,” you have every right to push back. While most doctors are kind, competent, and deeply caring, unfortunately, some still may not take long COVID seriously, leaving patients feeling dismissed or gaslighted. Gaslighting means making you question your reality, and trust us, you don’t need that kind of emotional rollercoaster when you’re already juggling long COVID. So, how do you avoid being gaslighted during your appointment?
Here’s some things I have tried:
- Be Clear About Your Experience
Don’t let anyone belittle your symptoms, no matter how invisible or frustrating they may seem. If you’re experiencing brain fog so severe that you can’t find your own phone in your pocket or fatigue that leaves you feeling like you’ve run a marathon just by getting out of bed, say it. If a doctor downplays these symptoms, firmly restate your experience. For example, “I understand you might think it’s not that severe, but my brain fog makes it hard for me to complete simple tasks, and this fatigue isn’t something I can push through.” - Bring Evidence
If you’ve kept a symptom diary (which you definitely should have by now), bring it to the appointment. This provides objective evidence of the severity and pattern of your symptoms. Charts, notes, or even a summary of how your symptoms have evolved over time can help your doctor understand that this isn’t just “in your head.” If they still dismiss you, it might be time to seek a second opinion or look for a doctor who takes long COVID seriously. - Know Your Rights
If a doctor suggests that long COVID isn’t real or is exaggerated, calmly remind them that long COVID is a legitimate condition recognized by the NHS, World Health Organization (WHO), and many other health organizations. There’s scientific evidence and clinical recognition of long COVID as a real, serious illness, and they should treat it as such. Don’t let them deny the existence of your symptoms simply because they don’t understand the condition yet. - Don’t Let Them Over-Simplify
If your doctor tells you that “just a little rest” or “some exercise” will fix all your symptoms, don’t settle for that. Long COVID often requires multidisciplinary care—meaning doctors from different specialties working together. If the doctor is brushing off your concerns with oversimplified solutions, look somewhere else. - Don’t Be Afraid to Push for Action
If your doctor’s response feels dismissive or patronizing—maybe they tell you to “just push through” or that you’re “too young to be this tired”—don’t hesitate to ask for a second opinion or demand a specialized referral. It’s your health, and you deserve compassionate, competent care. A long COVID specialist will understand that recovery is a slow process, and that symptoms can fluctuate over time. If you feel your doctor isn’t equipped to treat long COVID, there are other professionals who will take your concerns seriously. - Trust Your Instincts
You are the expert on your own body. If your gut tells you that your doctor isn’t giving you the attention or treatment you need, don’t settle. You can find doctors who validate your experience and respect the complexity of long COVID. Whether you’re looking for a specialist or a multidisciplinary clinic, the right doctor will listen, take your symptoms seriously, and offer personalized care.
Conclusion: You’ve Got the Power to Advocate for Yourself
The medical system can be intimidating, but remember that you are your own best advocate. Don’t let anyone dismiss or minimize the real, life-altering impact of long COVID. If a doctor tries to gaslight you into thinking you’re imagining your symptoms, call them out, take your evidence, and find someone who will give you the care you deserve. You’re not alone in this journey, and there are many doctors and specialists out there who truly understand long COVID’s complexities and try to help.
So go ahead—bring your questions, bring your notes, bring your buddy, and bring your confidence. It’s time to take charge of your health, one doctor’s appointment at a time.
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Long Covid Journey 