Mental Health

Although my swelling may not be as extreme as when you type 'Lymphoedema' in Google search, there are still so many unseen mental strains which effect me every day. Having Lymphoedema as a young woman, in this day and age where image is everything, is very dibilitating. Whether it's on a night out or in dance classes, wearing shorts/bikinis in the summer or tight jeans that don't quite fit, there's always little reminders that I have a this flaw. I feel as though I am good at staying positive and seeing my Lymphoedema a uniqueness but there is always the voice in the back of my head telling me that I am less worth due to my condition. Even though people say 'I don't even notice' or 'it's just who you are', I will always feel its weight. Some days I barely notice myself but others it can be very mentally and emotionally challenging. I try to stay vocal about my swelling and I'm not afraid to explain about my condition when people ask genuinely, however, having to continually explain something so personal which I am so self conscious about can be difficult. The awareness of Lymphoedema in society is next to none so I must learn to live with how I have been built and embrace the individuality.