Michelle Pickens, 30, was 23 when she was diagnosed withCrohns diseasein 2015.
In Pickens case, it was a long time coming.
To make things more difficult, doctors told Pickens that anxiety was causing her health issues.
Ariel Davis
Heres her story, as told to health writer Claire Gillespie.
I saw quite a few doctors before I finally got my diagnosis.
A couple of months later, I found my current gastroenterologists office and was officiallydiagnosed with Crohns disease.
But I was also upset to know I have a lifelong condition.
Crohns is a complicated disease that manifests differently in each person.
I learned that treatment wouldnt be straightforward, and that was pretty hard to take in.
Everybodys journey is different, but this is what helped me.
Most of my family members who have Crohns were diagnosed after I was, so I felt pretty alone.
I eventually turned to the internet to find other people who were going through the same thing.
Through social mediaspecifically InstagramI found a lively, empathetic community.
There hasnt been a one-size-fits-all solution for me, so I adjust my diet depending on how Im feeling.
I found thatcertain fruits and vegetablesmade my symptoms worse, and how they were cooked was also a factor.
I would also stick to a liquid diet during a flare-up to make things more digestible.
In my early 20s, I still drank alcoholat brunch, happy hours, and wine nights.
Now, I only drink wine when I decide to enjoy a bit of booze.
Similar to food, I just have to take it as it comes and see what feels right.
Im constantly reassessing how something makes me feel because Ive learned flexibility is key.
Ultimately, Ive found that food isnt the biggest trigger for me anywaystressand lack of sleep are.
When I was first diagnosed, I started taking antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication like steroids.
I hope to continue it as long as possible.
Now, I am a lot more comfortable being open about my health.
Having my son really helped me embrace this mindset.
The pregnancy and delivery were rough, but seeing my body create something so amazing gave me renewed faith.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
