The uncertainty of the disease can mean missing out on social occasions, education and career opportunities, and other areas of life and the impact of navigating often unpredictable symptoms can have significant impact on wellbeing for many.
Helen, an Endometriosis UK volunteer, shares the impact endometriosis has had on her mental health:
"Endometriosis has forever reshaped my mental health. It has damaged my confidence, self-esteem, self-worth and outlook on life. Even if I have a good year or two, it's always in the back of my mind… when will it come back? How badly? How am I going to cope? And what if surgery doesn't work this time?"
Helen’s story is similar to many – and it’s so important that anyone affected by endometriosis can access mental health support, should they want to. Endometriosis UK is calling on Government to ensure that anyone with a menstrual health condition can access mental health support should they need it.
There is hope - and if you are struggling with endometriosis, you are not alone. Our support services are here for you should you want to reach out, and you can find out more about our support services, as well as links to mental health services, here.
This week, we've also been asking our community what supporting their mental health looks like in practice. You've been getting back to us with everything from painting and reading, to walking the dog, moving your body at your own pace, and finding others with endometriosis who simply get it.
There's no single right way to support your mental health when you're living with endometriosis. And Helen puts it best: "Look after yourself like you would look after your best friend."
Whatever your experience, you're not alone - and there's always someone out there who gets it.
