429. The reality of chronic illness in your 20s ft. Nikki Lilly

Living with a chronic illness in your 20s can feel like carrying an invisible weight that nobody else can see. Beyond the hospital appointments, surgeries, medications and diagnoses, there is a hidden psychological burden: the anxiety, grief, uncertainty, identity struggles and resilience required to keep moving forward when your body feels beyond your control.

In this week's episode, I sit down with content creator, advocate and broadcaster Nikki Lilly to discuss what it's really like growing up with a rare medical condition, navigating facial differences, online bullying, and building a meaningful life despite constant uncertainty.

We discuss:

• The hidden psychological impact of chronic illness
•  Medical trauma, PTSD and the long road to healing
• How chronic illness affects your relationship with your body
• Online bullying, discrimination and appearance-based judgment
• Plus her time at the Oscars and her vision for her future

Happy listening!

Watch on Netflix: HERE

Listen to Live A Little: HERE

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The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist. 

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