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Real members of myHSteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Hi everyone, how can you think positive when it's very difficult and others around you don't comprehend what you're going through?

A myHSteam Member asked a question 💭
Adak, AK
August 10
 · 
Be the first to react
A myHSteam Member

And only people who have got HS do actually understand what it in tails unfortunately even doctors don’t understand it either and the simple answer to that question 🙋‍♀️ is if a scientist 👨‍🔬 can’t work it out then a doctor 👨‍⚕️ or even most people will never understand it either
But HS is supposed to be more painful than open heart ❤️ surgery and that’s a fact as well
🤔 well I don’t know 🤷‍♀️ what open heart ❤️ surgery would feel like but I certainly ain’t finding out either way 👌
Keep smiling 🙂 and take no notice only you know how it effects you personally

August 16
A myHSteam Member

I’m very easily go down the lines of thinking 🤔 that someone like on here is having it a lot worse than you are and keep drumming that into your head 👌

August 16
myHSteam

Staying positive while living with HS — especially when those around you don't fully understand — is genuinely hard. You're not alone in feeling this way, and it's okay to acknowledge that some days are really tough.

Here are some strategies that may help:

- Practice self-affirmations — Repeating phrases like "I am Show Full Answer

Staying positive while living with HS — especially when those around you don't fully understand — is genuinely hard. You're not alone in feeling this way, and it's okay to acknowledge that some days are really tough.

Here are some strategies that may help:

- Practice self-affirmations — Repeating phrases like "I am strong" or "I have HS and I am still me" throughout the day can help challenge negative thoughts and remind you that you're in control
- Try mindfulness or meditation — Even 10 minutes of quiet breathing and self-compassion can shift your mindset
- Write in a journal — Getting feelings out on paper can be surprisingly freeing
- Get outside — A short walk and fresh air can do wonders for your mood
- Connect with a therapist — Online therapy is a flexible, often affordable option, especially during flares when getting out is uncomfortable
- Lean on support groups — Connecting with others who truly *get it* can make a huge difference As one myHSteam member put it, "Don't lose hope. If you start having negative thoughts, get out of the house and do something fun." Another shared, "I won't let HS define me anymore."

It's also worth talking to your dermatologist if the emotional weight feels heavy — they can help point you toward the right support.

August 10

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