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“I was first diagnosed with fibromyalgia and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in March 2020, aged 18. My diagnosis was somewhat of a relief as I had been awaiting a formal diagnosis for 5 years. It felt like a confirmation of what I had already been suspecting for years.
I was initially prescribed medication to help reduce my symptoms, but after this I would say that I’ve not received any other formal support – outside of receiving more painkillers from my GP upon request. I have struggled to find the support and guidance for navigating my life, both before and after my diagnosis. At the time of writing, I have been waiting over a year for a pain management clinic appointment. It feels like I’ve been left to manage my condition on my own.
In November 2020, eight months after my diagnosis, I created my blog Chronically Strong to give me a place to talk about my condition. Being able to speak up about how I felt and what I was going through was an empowering way for me to support others while also learning more. I also founded the Championing Youth Minds blog around this time, which focuses on improving mental wellbeing for young people. I wanted to create a platform for young people who may be in a similar position as I once was, and help them realise that they are not alone.
“Living with my conditions has helped me learn so much about myself and how to listen and honour my body. I have become far more familiar with dealing with my conditions on a daily basis, to the point where it doesn’t negatively impact my mental wellbeing anymore.”
I first heard of Arthritis Action over Instagram and really appreciate the great work they are doing. Speaking to an organisation like them is an amazing way to connect and learn from others who have things in common with you. Their resources help people to manage their lifestyle and symptoms as I have and live a better, more active life.
My arthritis has definitely impacted my daily life, affecting what I can and can’t do. However, I find comfort in the things I can control. Recently, I have been making efforts to improve my daily habits. I’ve learnt to be careful when planning my time and deciding what to do each day, so that I don’t over-exert myself. I’m mindful of avoiding processed foods and increasing my step count to help self-manage my condition. I have also taken up mental wellbeing therapy to help cope with the stress that comes with my conditions.
Now, several years after my diagnosis, I have come to love and accept my conditions. At the end of the day, it is a part of me that makes me who I am. Living with my conditions has helped me learn so much about myself and how to listen and honour my body. I have become far more familiar with dealing with my conditions on a daily basis, to the point where it doesn’t negatively impact my mental wellbeing anymore.
If someone my age has been diagnosed with arthritis or a similar condition, I would advise them to accept and love their body and self for who they are. It can be hard doing this when your body has different needs to others your age, but you can still do everything you want to do. Don’t let your condition define you.
If you’re like me and you live with a musculoskeletal condition, I really recommend you check out the Championing Youth Minds website and my Chronically Strong blog, or follow me on Instagram. You’re not alone!”
