This is interesting... I read where pain patients begin their story "I was in an auto accident (it wasn't my fault"). It seems we apologize for breathing! :) I think we feel bad for not being "normal", for not participating, for not being believed, for not feeling "valued", for not being included...so we end up apologizing.

I started trying (by practicing) and saying "I don't feel like going out for dinner, what about ordering something in and watching a movie"? At times, I'll say "I'm sorry for ruining our plans." Sometimes, it might be good to validate we are aware things might revolve around us, so at times we might need to express that.

"I have health issues and this is ONE OF THOSE days! Irks me, but want to try coming by and having coffee next week??" State the problem and then a solution and don't feel guilty all the time! lol. It's impossible not to feel guilty, but really, people don't like hearing our guilt.

I used to but not anymore, because I have resigned myself to the fact that I will have good and bad days, I just learn to enjoy the good days❤️

Nope! I don't apologize or feel guilty. Everyone knows about my health challenges. They are appreciative for any day that I am functional, and understanding of those days when I am not. Today is my anniversary and hubby called off from work to basically serve me breakfast in bed. I have no energy to go or do anything else.

Me too
But still apologize sometimes and find out they already know my conditions

I apologize to wife for being tired all the time. I got tired of explaining to people how exhausting it is being in constant pain. I pretty much stay home anymore. I really don't socialize anymore.