Understanding the Spoon Theory

Chronic illness is difficult to explain — this is something the millions of people living with one (or more) know very well. When people can’t see visible signs of illness, they doubt your experiences — this is very common for people with depression.

This lack of understanding is exactly what Christine Miserandino was trying to navigate while explaining her lupus to a friend. Through her explanation, the spoon theory was born.

Using the spoons, Miserandino described to her friend how much energy it takes to live with a chronic illness. Though it may not always seem like it, it takes a great deal of effort to complete tasks and get through the day.

Chronic illness sufferers around the world have found the spoon theory useful in explaining not just the pain, but what it actually feels like to live with their condition.