Advice to other young people living with a chronic condition

We asked young people to give other young people living with a chronic condition advice about how to make things better for those living with a chronic illness. Here is what they have to say:

Managing your condition

Keep positive even when at times it is difficult.
You have to learn to fight the pain. Be strong.
Your chronic condition doesn't have to take over your life. You have to control it. It's part of your life, it is not you.
If you have asthma carry your inhalers with you at all times.
If you have arthritis and have been advised to do exercise keep doing it even if it hurts because you'll see the benefits and feel better for it.
Young people with cystic fibrosis need to make sure that they get their priorities right and know their own limitations.
And if you are feeling run down then stop and listen to your body.
Remember everybody is different and reacts differently to pain and treatment.
Just because you have sickle cell doesn't mean that you are not normal. To be different it's a good thing.
Try and find a hobby to do like playing card or computer games. It helps when you are feeling rough.
Do not smoke or drink alcohol.
Make sure that you take your medication whatever your condition.
Follow your doctor's advice, but if you disagree tell them. They will listen.
If you feel angry or frustrated you have a right to be but don't keep those feeling inside you. Punching a pillow or a good cry does helps.
Don't feel that you have to live up to the expectations of others whether family or doctors. Trust yourself and be true to your pain.
To young people with muscular dystrophy: you have to have courage and never give up. Don't be scared.
Epilepsy will always be part of your life and it's not going to go away, but it is not who you are.
If you have ME do what your body is asking you and have plenty of rest.
Good communication with doctors is important. If you don't understand something ask them.
Take advantage of all the facilities and people who are there to help you live with your condition.

She advises other young people with arthritis to keep doing their exercises and to give up drinking alcohol and smoking. Keep positive even when it is difficult at times.

Tells other young people with sickle cell that having sickle cell doesn't make them abnormal and that, they should 'go out there' and pursue their goals.

He tells other young people with muscular dystrophy not to be scared. God gave him a brain and a heart and an ability to make others happy.

She thinks that young people with cystic fibrosis should make the most of the facilities and expertise available to help them keep on top of their condition.

His advice is to keep positive. Don't let it defeat you. If you let your illness get you down you are going to feel worse.

Her advice to young people with ME/CFS is to accept their symptoms and take plenty of rest. Be patient.

Other young people and organisations can help too

Remember that you are not alone and that there are many other young people that have the same chronic condition.
Talk to other young people with the same condition. It helps.
Get in touch with charity organisations and support groups. They can give information and support.
It is important to tell family and friends what they should do if you are not feeling well.
When you are feeling down and depress talk to someone; a family member or a friend. If you don't feel like talking to them write your feelings down and give the piece of paper to them.
A chronic condition can make you closer to your family and tell you who your real friends are.
Parents should try and be less overprotective. Teenagers need space to breath.