Episode Details
Back to Episodes
429. The reality of chronic illness in your 20s ft. Nikki Lilly
Description
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
Follow Lilly on Instagram: @nikkililly
Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg
Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast
Subscribe on Substack: @thepsychologyofyour20s
For business: psychologyofyour20s@gmail.com
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.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.