The Sunday News
Tine Mataz
HELLO readers, welcome to another episode of Endometriosis awareness month. I also wish all the amazing women out there a happy women’s month. Today’s article will be focused on endometriosis and emotions. Chronic pain or just pain in general can mess with our emotions , our minds, body and soul. It happens whether we acknowledge it or not. We will discuss how and why.
It can take seven to 10 years to get diagnosed and in these years a woman is desperately trying to find out what is wrong with her. In these years she faces humiliation, embarrassment, loneliness, and even confusion among other emotions. It is emotionally draining.
When I started to have pain I went from doctor to doctor and they told me “it was all in my head” or that “it’s just period pain”. I had to fight for answers and fight to be heard. We also live in a society where period issues are not well discussed and seen as taboo, hence there is not much support for women living with endometriosis. A woman’s life becomes about trying to manage pain and trying to find treatment that works for her. It’s a long time to be suffering.
Once she is diagnosed, questions begin to fly all over her mind? Is there a cure? How do I tell my partner? Will I have children? Will I die? These types of questions can cause stress, worry, anxiety and depression.
Negative feelings or emotions have an effect on pain. I personally feel worse or have a “flare” (a sudden appearance or worsening of symptoms of a disease or condition) when I am upset, stressed or overworked. I want to explain it in the simplest way possible. Research suggests that when the body is under stress it secretes cortisol and that can worsen pain. You are tense and the body responds to this. So, try to avoid stress or any stressful situations. In life there are situations we may not be able to control so we should deal with those, but I strongly recommend removing added stress that can be removed. Your health is very important. Your mental health is important. When it comes down to it, your mind is the most powerful tool you have when your body is failing you.
Endometriosis can create stress when a woman cannot do some of the things she desires to such as having a baby, going to work, seeing friends and even having a romantic relationship. That then turns into worry about what her future will hold and that can turn into depression. Depression is more than being sad, it’s a deep feeling of sadness, of no purpose and it is a dark place to be. Many women have committed suicide because of the effects of endometriosis. It is important to seek help.
Talk to someone. Do not be scared of being judged or be embarrassed about being in a bad place.
Everybody has flaws. It is okay not to be okay, BUT do not let it take over you. Get help. Get the information and empower yourself.
If you are feeling like you are no longer able to deal with your emotions you should:
1. Tell someone.
2. Join an Endometriosis support group on Facebook.
3. Talk to someone.
4. Believe it will pass.
5. Know you deserve to be okay and to be loved.
I have created an online Zimbabwe Support system for women with endo, you may contact me on +263778026402 if you would like to join, and meet other women with endometriosis. Until next week, stay safe and remember, I am here for you.
