Understanding the Spoon Theory

It’s human nature for people not to believe something they can’t see. But it’s also more than that — it’s an everyday struggle for people with chronic illness.

If you have asthma, you’re likely used to explaining yourself and your asthma condition to others. It can be hard to do, but using the spoon theory makes it easier for people to understand.

The theory was created when Christine Miserandino was trying describe to a friend what it feels like to have lupus. Using nothing more than a handful of spoons, she enlightened her friend and inspired chronic illness sufferers around the world.

The theory has resonated with so many that there is a following of people called “Spoonies” who connect with each other and share over social media.