A cry for help from a tired soul
Hi, I’m Mercy. I’ve been battling Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) since 2019, when I was just 19 years old. This condition has deeply affected every area of my life — from my education to my relationships and especially my mental health.
I was advised to eat three balanced meals daily, but there are days I survive on just water because I can't afford proper food or even the medications I need. I’m a hairstylist, but the pain and symptoms often make it hard for me to work consistently or support myself.
Most days, I feel completely alone — physically, mentally, and financially. I’m not just looking for sympathy — I’m reaching out because I need support. Any kind of help, encouragement, or just someone to talk to means more than I can say. Some days, it feels like I’m losing hope. But I’m still here, trying. Thank you for reading
@Mercyjosh
You have my sincere empathy.
I know what it's like to lose hope, feel alone, and struggle financially. It can be truly soul-crushing. I wish I'd have reached out when I was struggling, as I believe it's a way to gain much needed perspective. Your own mind can be your worst enemy in situations like this.
I do hope you can find a way to get medication that works for you. In the meantime, let's focus on your mind.
You have a battle on your hands. You face something physical, which is affecting you mentally. That's totally normal, but I want to let you know there *is* hope!
You're already exploring your feelings, which is empowering. By reaching out, you may find yourself feeling less alone, especially if you can find people that relate with your journey. Keep searching for your people, I fully trust they're out there. There are likely people here. Like I said, I relate to your response to a problem that cannot be easily solved.
How do you stay positive, though? I believe a good spirit alleviates suffering, but it's not always so easy to achieve.
Concentrate on your successes. Indulge in some self-love, and see your worth. Anything you do in this state is admirable. I know I completely shut down in the face of adversity. You are certainly doing a lot more than I did!
Hair styling is very cool. I wish I could do it. You're helping shape identity. It's more powerful than people realise. I love talking to my hair dresser. A good haircut isn't just nice, it can set a positive tone for months to come.
Thanks for reaching out, I hope you get more responses with practical advice for how to tackle the physical side of things. I recently had a lot of trouble with eating, and one day I couldn't eat at all. It was disturbing. Just do your best! Try not to dwell on the struggle, and be happy with what you can do.