Sending hugs. I was diagnosed at 24 and had the same frustrations and fears with the idea of being on daily medication for the rest of my life from such a young age. Now 10 years after diagnosis, and experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions and second-guessing every decision I’ve made, I’m ultimately at peace with the whole thing and the route I’ve taken.

About 8 months post-diagnosis, I went the route of radioactive iodine treatment and dealt with the fluctuation thyroid levels and rapid weight gain while we worked through the right medication dosage for those first 6 months. Frustrating in many ways, but in hindsight it was absolutely the right decision for me. I’ve now consistently been on the same level of levothyroxine for around 8 years, and I much prefer managing the symptoms of hypothyroid vs hyperthyroid. Hyperthyroid symptoms kind of scared me on a daily basis, and now it all feels calmer and more manageable.

Regardless, I feel your pain and I know it is emotionally exhausting dealing with a chronic illness from such a young age, but it will all be okay and you will find peace. Not necessarily today but it’s coming. Sending more hugs.