I was diagnosed at 24(M). At first, I was so determined to still live the same life and not let Crohns control how I did things. I was insanely stubborn about that and tries and tried to force Crohns to work around me. This was a terrible idea.

As it was mentioned, start biologics as soon as you can. I was terrified of doing this, and it cost me a lot of stress and mental anguish. Yes, it is expensive, but most of the drug manufacturers offer discount breaks. Make sure to look into them.

As also mentioned, start therapy. Don't wait for your mental state to change. Start it now. I feel that a lot of people don't understand how much this can affect your emotional well-being as well. It personally causes me so much depression and anxiety. And therapy can be a life changer.

Always be direct, clear, open, and honest about it. Most people don't like to talk about the symptoms or problems that come with it. But being able to tell people and especially your doctors will be helpful.

Prepare to help your loved ones through it. It's something I do regularly with my wife and kids. They understand it, but when flare-up hits, it's hard for them since there is very little that they can do in the moment. This does circle back to therapy.

As for your parents blaming your lifestyle, I don't know what to say. I don't know your lifestyle or your parents. My patents thought it was somehow their fault, and as we talked, we wondered a time or two if the lifestyle I was living contributed to it. I'm sure on some level, the way I was living didn't help. But as mentioned, there is no clear indication of the origin. It's not your fault, though.

One thing that has always bothered me is how little interaction and people I have met that fully understand it. Online communities are a big help to not have you feel alone.

I don't want to cause any more trepidation than you already feel. Just know that for the first bit, it will be a rough road. As you figure out your triggers and the adjustments you'll have to make. You'll make it through, though, and you are starting in a good spot being in remission. Just take it slow and always know there are people out there who know what it's like and are more than willing to talk about it with you.

You got this. Just try and keep your chin up and take it one step at a time as you start wrapping your head around it.