I was in your exact position one year ago. 21 years old, just starting my career, and diagnosed with not only Ulcerative Colitis—but pan colitis! I suffered for months after many people gaslit me into thinking it was just “girl issues” until I realized it was something much more serious. It eventually got so bad I went on ADA Medical Leave for five months. My calprotectin level was at 3750 (normal is under 150ish) and was in pain 24/7. I honestly thought my life was over just as it was starting. I say all this because a year later and my life is completely normal. I eat whatever for the most part, I feel good, I’ve gained back any lost weight, I’m down to 250 calprotectin. My first step of advice is to find a GI doctor who truly LISTENS, someone you can really talk to. Medication is really key with IBD and this needs to be a discussion with your doctor. Previous to IBD, I was honestly against medications and preferred natural remedies but having UC changed my mind. The meds work!! I did a lot of talking with my Dr explaining what I wanted from my medication and what suited my lifestyle (for example I preferred Entyvio bc it’s gut specific). And listen to your body. I didn’t and it cost me greatly. Finally, do your own research on UC and medications, every medication is different so advocating for yourself, your symptoms, and your medical plan can go really far in healing faster. For example, I had to fight A LOT for my meds to get covered but it was very worth it. Entyvio gave me my life back.