Living with a chronic illness is rarely discussed among young people. While chronic conditions are often associated with older populations, many 20-year-olds, including myself, navigate these challenges daily.
I struggle with several conditions, but POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) has been the most difficult to manage. POTS affects the autonomic nervous system, causing an abnormal increase in heart rate that leads to dizziness, fatigue, and heart palpitations. It limits my ability to exercise and play basketball, the sport I love. The rapid heart rate and dizziness make high-intensity activities difficult, and honestly, it just scares the shit out of me sometimes.
On the surface, I might say living with a chronic illness sucks, but it is what it is. Dig deeper though, and it can be soul-destroying. I mourn the happy, energetic, healthy person I was as a kid. It breaks my heart when I can’t do what a typical 22-year-old can do, when I miss out or can’t keep up. Sometimes being around a doctor is the only time I feel at peace. I fear deteriorating to the point where I can no longer enjoy life or take care of myself.
Pain management has become a constant part of my routine, balancing rest and activity, using heat or cold therapy, taking medications and vitamins, practicing mindfulness, and sometimes simply doing nothing because my body demands rest.
What I struggle with most is the health anxiety that often accompanies chronic illness. In severe cases, this can develop into hypochondria. These feelings are valid and terrifying. When you’ve faced life-threatening health situations growing up, you confront your own mortality much earlier and more frequently than most kids. It’s a harsh reality no child should face. Being young should mean feeling invincible, not worrying that your body might not be strong enough to keep you alive.
Unlike a broken bone or visible injury, chronic pain doesn’t have outward signs. This leads to misunderstandings and lack of empathy. People might think you’re exaggerating or using your condition as an excuse. But living with chronic pain requires immense strength and resilience.
Mental health inevitably suffers. The constant pain, limitations, and fear of the future can lead to depression, anxiety, and a deep longing for health. Maintaining positivity when your body feels like it’s betraying you is challenging. Acknowledging these mental health struggles is crucial, seeking therapy, talking to loved ones, and finding healthy coping mechanisms can make a significant difference.
Here’s what’s important to remember: you are not alone. Many young people understand what you’re going through. Finding a support system, whether friends, family, or online communities, is essential. It’s where you can share experiences and find comfort in knowing others face similar challenges.
Living with chronic pain teaches valuable life skills. You learn to prioritize health, manage time effectively, develop empathy for others, and appreciate what you have. These skills serve you well in all areas of life. It’s also essential to advocate for yourself—speak up about your needs, listen to your body, and push for more tests if something feels off.
I’m not sharing this for pity. I wrote this to raise awareness and understanding about the realities of living with chronic illness and health anxiety, and to remind others that they aren’t alone in their struggles. It’s a call for empathy and support, and a reminder that resilience can be found even in the toughest circumstances.
To all young people living with chronic pain: you are seen, you are heard, and you are doing a fantastic job. Keep pushing forward, care for yourself, and know you are not alone.
