Is Your Inner Critic Making Your Symptoms Worse?
- mindkindcbt
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
If you have an autoimmune disease, you probably already know how much stress can impact your symptoms. But have you ever considered that the way you talk to yourself might be keeping your body in a constant state of tension?
Many of us have an inner critic—that voice in our head that tells us we’re not doing enough, that we should be able to push through, or that we’re failing at managing our health. But what if that voice is actually making things worse?
How Your Inner Critic Affects Your Body
Negative self-talk isn’t just in your head—it has real effects on your nervous system. When your brain perceives stress (even self-imposed stress), it can trigger:
Increased inflammation
Higher levels of cortisol (a stress hormone)
Muscle tension and fatigue
Poor digestion and gut issues
A nervous system stuck in fight-or-flight mode
Essentially, when your inner critic is harsh and relentless, your body doesn’t feel safe—and that can make it harder for your immune system to regulate itself.
Common Inner Critic Thoughts (and What to Say Instead)
Here are some common thoughts that might be keeping your body on edge, along with a kinder alternative:
❌ “I should be able to do more.” ✅ “My body is asking for rest, and I’m allowed to listen.”
❌ “I’m failing at managing my health.” ✅ “I’m learning what works for me, and that takes time.”
❌ “I shouldn’t need help.” ✅ “I deserve support, just like anyone else.”
By shifting these thoughts, you’re sending a powerful signal to your nervous system that you are safe—which can help reduce stress and inflammation.
How to Start Being Kinder to Yourself
Notice your self-talk – Pay attention to how you speak to yourself when you’re having a tough day.
Ask: Would I say this to a friend? – If not, try rewording it into something more compassionate.
Use reminders – Write a few self-kindness phrases on sticky notes or set them as phone alerts.
Practice small moments of self-care – Even a deep breath or a 5-minute break can remind your body that it’s okay to slow down.
Your thoughts matter. The way you talk to yourself can be a powerful tool in calming your nervous system, reducing stress, and supporting your healing.
If you’d like more support in learning how to calm your nervous system, check out my Autoimmune Calm Journey—a 14-day guided experience designed to help you feel more at ease. It’s a bargain at only £7, and you can start right away!