Giving up is conceding that things will never get better, and that is just not true. Ups and downs are a constant in life, and I've been belted into that roller coaster a thousand times. - Aimee Mullins
Living with endometriosis is not just about the physical pain and challenges—it's a daily battle that takes a toll on our emotional well-being. From feelings of depression and uselessness to the guilt of constantly canceling plans and missing out on important events, the emotional impact of endometriosis can be overwhelming.
Endometriosis can dictate our lives in ways we never imagined. It's disheartening to consistently cancel on friends or miss out on gatherings and events, knowing that our absence may be misunderstood or even forgotten. Despite the understanding and empathy of our friends, the sting of seeing others enjoy activities without us can still hurt. However, it's crucial to remind ourselves that it's not personal—it's simply the reality of living with this chronic illness. But even as I say this, I'd like to just quickly address all of my friends and family, yours too: it still means a lot when you invite us to hang out, even though most of the time we're blowing you off. It's nothing personal, it's all due to endometriosis. It hurts when we hear or see that you did some interesting activities without extending an invitation to us - it hurts a lot.
Juggling multiple responsibilities while battling endometriosis can feel like an impossible task. The constant cycle of pain, medication, and drowsiness can severely impact our ability to meet deadlines, both at work and in our studies. It's frustrating to see important assignments slip away due to our health limitations. I for one have missed two important assignment deadlines, as well as a work deadline due to my current flare up and I feel like crap about it. I blame Oxycontin, it sure can make me very unproductive. In these moments, it's vital to be gentle with ourselves and acknowledge that prioritising our health and well-being is not a failure—it's an act of self-preservation, even though others don't fully understand.
There comes a point in our journey with endometriosis when we have to make difficult decisions in order to protect our health and sanity. The constant juggling of responsibilities can become overwhelming, and sometimes, we have to drop a ball to survive. It's not an easy choice, but our well-being must always take precedence. For some, this may mean putting studies on hold temporarily to focus on healing and managing the condition. I'll be honest, I'm talking about myself here and the ball that I must drop is my studies. This is the week to really make the final decision about this and consider the advice that I give to others in my position: Remember, it's okay to take a step back and reassess our priorities.
Endometriosis can make us feel isolated and misunderstood, but we are not alone. Seeking help from professionals, family, or trusted friends is crucial in navigating the emotional challenges. Therapy sessions can provide a safe space to express our feelings, find coping mechanisms, and develop strategies for self-care.
It's not just endo warriors who should seek support; those who support and love someone with endometriosis should also reach out for guidance and understanding. Supporting and loving someone with endometriosis can be both rewarding and challenging. It's crucial for the loved ones of those with endometriosis to seek guidance and understanding to navigate the complexities of this condition effectively. Here's why:
All in all, prioritising self-care, seeking support, and making tough decisions to protect our health are acts of bravery and self-love. Together, we can create a community that understands, supports, and empowers one another through the emotional journey of endometriosis.
Signed,
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