How I Get By When My Endometriosis Turns to Anger

Endometriosis is by no means a picnic in the park. Bouts of pain, mood swings and exhaustion make it difficult to get through the day. It’s frustrating not knowing if I will wake up to my old self or the chronic monster I have become. Controlling my reactions to everyday situations is tough. Since my endometriosis diagnosis, I find I experience bouts of anxiety and depression. I now take offense to things I used to be able to laugh about. I become defensive and angry if someone is just trying to give me advice or help.When did this monster become so controlling? Why have I become so angry?

How I Cope With My Anger

All of this bottled-up anger makes it hard to work, sustain relationships and do things I normally love to do. But as I slowly work on myself and my health, I have found ways to cope when I am having a rough time.

1. Personal development books

Reading has always been a wonderful hobby. If I didn’t get chronic migraines, I could read all day. Whenever I am feeling discouraged, I turn to personal development books. They are always filled with words of wisdom, support and positivity. It helps me snap out of my funk, and brings me back to life. Sometimes, it even gives me a kick in the rear end that I need. Most of the time, I forget what I was even angry at, and become motivated to become a better version of myself. Along with personal development books, I find that books about endometriosis or other chronic illnesses help. One of my personal favorites, “The Doctor Will See You Now,” can be found on Amazon — it is such a great read.

2. Take a walk through nature

The best place for me to clear my head is outside. Walking through nature has always calmed my soul. Taking breaths of fresh air and looking at the world around me, I begin to realize my problems are so small. Whatever I’m angry at diminishes into the trees. On days that it is rainy or my body aches too much for a walk, I enjoy “Relaxing Nature Sounds.”

3. Find someone to talk to

I know this can be a hard thing to find for many of us. Not many people truly understand what it is like living in pain every single day. I have found endometriosis support groups on Facebook to be helpful. I am also lucky that my mom is always there to listen and give advice when I need it the most. It may also help, if you are comfortable, to find a therapist you can talk with on days when you just cannot control your emotions. I have found having a therapist who allows online/email sessions is very helpful for me.

4. Breathing exercises

This is something I never believed in until I tried yoga and realized how much it truly helps. When my mind is racing and my heart is pumping fast, I close my eyes, take a deep breath in from my nose, count to seven and then let the breath out through my mouth. I do this however many times I need to until I feel relaxed. This is one of my favorite coping mechanisms because I can do it anywhere at anytime.

Getty Image by Cheremuha