Spoilers ahead for Rebecca Yarros’s novel, Fourth Wing!
Living with a chronic medical condition can significantly impact one's mental health, as the challenges and limitations it presents can take a toll on overall well-being. However, in the new incredible novel Fourth Wing by Rabecca Yarros that has gone viral, we encounter a remarkable 20-year-old female character named Violet Sorrengail who defies the odds and showcases unwavering internal strength despite her battle with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Giving the heroine of the story a chronic illness is unique and not typically accepted as a large community. However, Rebecca Yarros does an incredible job in seamlessly incorporating the illness into the character and explores the intricate relationship between chronic illness and mental health. Violet’s character shows how her resilience serves as a powerful reminder that a chronic condition does not have to control one's life negatively.
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What Is Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS)?
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of genetic connective tissue disorders that affect the body's ability to produce strong and healthy collagen, which is an important protein that provides structure and support to our tissues, such as skin, joints, and blood vessels. Think of collagen as the "glue" that holds our body together.
In people with EDS, there is a defect in the production, structure, or processing of collagen, which leads to various symptoms and complications. These can include overly flexible joints that are prone to dislocations and partial dislocations, fragile and stretchy skin that can easily bruise or tear, and weak blood vessels that may be prone to rupture or cause other complications.
The symptoms and severity of EDS can vary widely between individuals. Some people may experience joint pain, chronic fatigue, and digestive issues, while others may have more severe symptoms that affect multiple systems in the body. EDS is a lifelong condition, meaning that it is present from birth and typically persists throughout a person's life.
It's important to note that EDS is a complex condition with different subtypes, each with its own specific characteristics and complications. While there is currently no cure for EDS, treatment focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving quality of life. This often involves a multidisciplinary approach that may include physical therapy, pain management, joint support, and individualized care plans.
The emotional and psychological challenges faced by individuals with chronic medical conditions:
Living with a chronic medical condition can have a profound impact on an individual's emotional and psychological well-being. The constant presence of physical symptoms, limitations, and uncertainty can create a unique set of challenges that affect various aspects of a person's life.
The following are mental health challenges that people with chronic medical conditions face:
Emotional distress:
Coping with a chronic illness often leads to a range of emotions, including fear, sadness, frustration, anger, and grief. For more about this, see our blog post, “3 Ways To Manage Your Physical Anxiety Symptoms”.
Loss of identity:
A chronic medical condition can alter a person's sense of self and identity. Roles and activities once enjoyed may become limited or unattainable, leading to feelings of diminished self-worth and a loss of purpose.
Social isolation or loneliness:
The physical and emotional burdens associated with a chronic illness can result in social withdrawal and isolation. Individuals may feel misunderstood or judged, leading to a reduced desire to engage in social activities or seek support from others. Or they may feel physically or mentally unwell due to symptoms from their illness and may need to cancel plans.
Anxiety
The uncertainty and unpredictability of living with a chronic condition can contribute to heightened levels of anxiety. Constant worry about future health outcomes, financial burdens, or the impact on relationships can significantly increase anxious symptoms.
Depression:
A chronic illness can really impact your mood and can make you feel down on yourself. If you are in pain then that can cause depressive symptoms as well. Symptoms can also keep you from enjoying activities you typically love which can increase depressive symptoms.
Impact on relationships:
Chronic illness can strain relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. The demands of managing symptoms, medical appointments, and lifestyle adjustments can create tension, communication difficulties, and feelings of burden or guilt.
Reduced quality of life:
The limitations created by a chronic medical condition can affect an individual's ability to pursue hobbies, engage in meaningful activities, or maintain a fulfilling career. This can lead to a decreased overall quality of life and a sense of dissatisfaction or frustration.
Coping with uncertainty:
Chronic conditions often come with uncertainty, as symptoms may fluctuate, treatment effectiveness may vary, and prognosis can be unclear. Living with this constant uncertainty can generate significant stress and anxiety, impacting your overall mental health.
Stigma and self-perception:
Individuals with chronic medical conditions may face stigma, both from society and self inflicted. The perception that they are "different" or "abnormal" can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, or a negative self-image.
How Violet Overcomes Anxiety and Finds Her Identity:
In the book Fourth Wing, Violet is an anxious character who is extremely intelligent. She trained to be a scribe and retains information very well. When Violet entered Basgiath War College, she was faced with multiple physical challenges that any person would find difficult to overcome. With Violet’s physical disability, she is seen as different from her peers, is called weak, and is bullied. Violet’s best friend even spends time trying to convince her to drop out of the riders quadrant and join the scribe quadrant instead. This stigma and doubt causes Violet to become anxious and worried that she may not be able to make it to graduation alongside her peers. This is a great example of how someone with chronic illness is seen as less than others and faces stigma in society.
A big part of Violet’s character arc in Fourth Wing is her finding her identity. Even though Violet has a physical disability, she is able to overcome that and become the strongest rider in her year due to her intelligence and determination to gain strength and skill. If Violet listened to the others around her when they said that she was too weak to make it as a rider then she would not have been able to save so many lives. Violet proves in the end that she is the heroine of the story and she is not only as strong as the others in battle, but was the strongest one. Violet is able to find herself and her identity through the help and support of people who truly believed in her which led her to believe in herself in the end.
Violet’s Internal Strength: Providing Hope For Chronic Illness
It is not common that a novel has a character who has a clear chronic illness. It is also even more rare that a character has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Violet is such a strong character because she is still the typical underdog that we root for in a story. Violet is physically weaker than her peers in the book, but she doesn’t quit. She works daily to strengthen herself physically and mentally. When Violet gets her power to wield lightning she works for hours every day to control and strengthen her power. This power comes from within her and is all about her mental strength. It is exhausting work, but she pushes through the exhaustion and pain. Violet’s internal strength in turn creates physical strength by the end of the book in which she is the most powerful rider in battle. Violet’s internal strength gives hope to others with chronic illness because it shows that you don’t need to be born the same way as others, you may be different, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t achieve the goals you set out for yourself and that you can’t find other ways to make things happen.
Violet’s positive outlook on life keeps her going and helps her manage her chronic illness. Throughout the book, Violet used her intelligence to help her with every task at hand. When she had hand to hand combat, she figured out ahead of time who she would be up against and found their weaknesses and poisoned them so that she had a fighting chance. While this is a fictional character and fantasy book, it does show how someone with EDS can live a very fulfilling life by accomplishing goals, forming strong relationships with others, and developing into a functional and independent young adult. Violet’s intelligence and determination contribute to her ability to overcome adversity. Her character is an inspiration for anyone facing a similar challenge.
Strategies for Maintaining Mental Health Wellness when you have a chronic illness:
Self-Care:
Prioritize self-care activities that support your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This may include practicing mindfulness, engaging in relaxation techniques, getting good sleep, and nourishing your body with nutritious food.
If you need more ideas on how to practice self-care, check out our blog “The 8 Forms Of Self-Care & How You Can Practice Them”.
Seek Support:
Build a strong support network of family, friends, and healthcare professionals who understand and empathize with your condition. Joining support groups or online communities specific to your chronic illness can also provide a sense of belonging and validation.
Communication:
Openly communicate with your loved ones about your needs, limitations, and emotions. Effective communication can create understanding, empathy, and collaboration in managing your chronic illness, reducing feelings of isolation and burden.
Set Realistic Goals:
Establish realistic goals and expectations for yourself, considering the limitations imposed by your chronic illness. Break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate your achievements along the way. This helps maintain a sense of accomplishment and prevents feelings of overwhelm.
Practice Stress Management:
Explore stress management techniques that work for you, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in hobbies or activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Stress management techniques can help reduce anxiety and promote overall well-being.
Maintain a Routine:
Establishing a daily routine can provide structure and stability, which can be particularly beneficial when living with a chronic illness. Having a predictable schedule helps manage energy levels, reduces decision fatigue, and promotes a sense of stability and control.
Educate Yourself:
Learn about your chronic illness, including its symptoms, treatment options, and management strategies. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions, communicate effectively with healthcare providers, and advocate for your needs.
Practice Acceptance and Adaptation:
Acceptance of your chronic illness is a key aspect of maintaining mental well-being. Recognize that your condition does not define your worth or capabilities. Adapt to the limitations imposed by your illness by finding alternative approaches or modifying your goals and expectations.
Engage in Meaningful Activities:
Engaging in activities that bring you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Pursue hobbies, creative outlets, or volunteer work that aligns with your interests and abilities.
Professional Support:
Consider seeking professional support from mental health therapists or counselors who specialize in chronic illness and mental health. They can provide valuable guidance, coping strategies, and emotional support tailored to your specific needs.
To learn more about how to cope with everyday life stressors take a look at our blog, “The Best Ways To Cope With Life Transitions.”
Fourth Wing Empowers People with Chronic Illness and their Mental Health
Managing a chronic illness can be challenging and it's essential to be patient and kind to yourself. By prioritizing your mental well-being and implementing these strategies, you can cultivate resilience, improve your overall quality of life, and navigate the ups and downs of living with a chronic condition more effectively.
The fact that a book like Fourth Wing is going viral due to its incredible story featuring a main character with a chronic illness is a significant milestone and a big deal for several reasons. In a society where stories featuring characters with chronic illnesses are often overlooked or underrepresented, this book breaks barriers and challenges the typical narrative. The success of Fourth Wing and its portrayal of a main character with a chronic illness is a big deal because it challenges the status quo, breaks stereotypes, and fosters greater understanding and acceptance. It represents a step towards inclusivity, representation, and the recognition that individuals with chronic illnesses can be strong, complex, and compelling characters in literature. It opens doors for more diverse narratives and contributes to a more compassionate and inclusive literary landscape.
The journey of Violet in Fourth Wing serves as a powerful testament to the strength and resilience individuals can possess in the face of chronic illness. By examining Violet's story and the challenges she conquers, we gain insight into the intricate relationship between chronic medical conditions and mental health. This novel reminds us that internal strength, intelligence, and determination can enable individuals to rise above their condition, paving the way for a fulfilling and empowered life. By challenging misconceptions and embracing support, we can foster a society that empowers those with chronic illnesses to thrive mentally and emotionally.
Courtney Glashow, LCSW
is a psychotherapist and the owner of Anchor Therapy. Courtney specializes in seeing kids, teens, and adults with issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, behavioral problems, and more. Courtney is licensed to help clients residing in NJ and NY.
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