Supporting Your Life With Endometriosis

Suffering With Endometriosis

Suffering from endometriosis takes a toll on your body. Not just physically but also emotionally and mentally. The daily battles we face are exhausting in every fashion. Girls and women with endometriosis must find a supportive person or avenue to help them navigate their struggles.  

Suffering From Endometriosis

In 2019 and 2020, I had some of my darkest and loneliest days. During this time, I was so angry, scared, and worried. I was upset because I did not know what was going on with me, but I knew something was wrong. Terrified thinking about my future. Wondering if my life would always be so miserable. Worrisome about my health and whether or not I’d get any answers before things got worse or better.  

It felt like I was falling deeper into a depression every day for two years. The pain I was in daily was causing me to become increasingly emotional and angry. When I finally received my diagnosis, it brought clarity and peace to my life, but I still was not myself! 

Yes, it was a blessing to finally know what was causing this tremendous pain, but it was also mind-blowing trying to process that I have this chronic illness that is never going away. 

Seeking Endometriosis Support

For months, I searched for an outlet for someone or something I could relate to. I researched endometriosis constantly, hoping self-education would help me accept my condition. Sadly, the more knowledge I gained, the more depressed I became. 

After seeking a second opinion regarding my endometriosis, the provider gave me different support system options. He suggested that I join a support group. Later that day, I began searching every social media platform for a group that could appease my worry. A few days later, I found and joined a Facebook group.

 Initially, I was hesitant because I was unsure what to expect. Shortly after joining, it was like I was welcomed into a world that finally made sense. Reading the stories of other women and watching all the love everyone was giving and receiving was comforting.  

Although, seeing how it was a great outlet to speak with other persons. It took me months to gain the strength to reach out to someone I knew too had endometriosis. 

Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash

Finally, I reached out one day when my pain was getting the best of me. I desperately needed to talk to someone. The moment I began talking, I honestly wanted to cry. I had never been so open and honest about my pain or condition. Verbalizing my thoughts, feelings, and pain was all new but was absolutely needed.

I am beyond thankful for her and the relationship we have developed. She provided me with a safe space to be myself in a way that most people could not begin to even fathom. 

Who Can You Run To

Suffering from endometriosis often is a lonely, silent struggle. Endometriosis affects every area of our life – the physical, mental, and emotional. The physical pain alone is enough to alter our mental and emotional state. Unfortunately, we live in a society where discussing periods and menstruation is taboo.

 Therefore, how and where do the plethora of girls and women with gynecological issues discuss their struggles? Where can they find an open and welcoming environment?  

Find Your Tribe

If you have endometriosis, I strongly encourage you to find an outlet that allows you to feel free. We suffer through enough daily to also feel as if we are alone. Whether you like to exercise, hike, or dance, do something, anything that you enjoy to bring light and positivity into your life. You can research and find a support group to meet new people.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to someone who also has endometriosis. Discuss your feelings, or ask for suggestions on ways to manage your symptoms. If you don’t know anyone with endometriosis, talk to a close friend who will listen and allow you to be vulnerable without feeling judged. Endometriosis is not just a bad period; endometriosis is a debilitating chronic illness. Everyone diagnosed deserves a safe space to feel supported and free. 

Join other warriors and me at the Black Women Feel Pain Too Facebook group. Where we talk, discuss, comfort, and encourage all women suffering from gynecologist conditions.