I never thought I would have PTSD as a result of a really messed up psychiatric hospitalization. And that it would be the reason I’d have to abandon my desire to become a psychiatric nurse.

14

I thought I’d have my big boy job instead of getting screwed over by my program

9

I expected I would be mentally stable instead of having my entire perception of myself and my childhood be absolutely shattered by finding out I’m an alter in a traumagenic DID system. And not a year before that, finding out I’m (we’re) Autistic.

8

btw! no pressure to talk about it if you don’t want to ofc, but if you don’t mind me asking OP, what type of chronic illness are you dealing with? (not here to push unsolicited advice on you or anything like that fwiw 🫡 I just like connecting with other chronically ill people when I get the chance)

6

I thought I’d be working with animals, living in a different state or country with land I own getting ready to start my own family. Breaks my heart knowing none of that will happen now

4

incidentally, I thought the chronic illness I’ve had my entire life wasn’t going to be enough to prevent me from working the big boy job I went to school for

2

Hashimotos, Hypothyroidism, with weak positives for Celiac and one more I can’t remember at present - the combo causes daily exhaustion, depression, inability to lose weight, lack of metabolism, and loss of hair… I just started treatment, but it’ll never be the same as when I was about 14, even tho I’m 20 now. I’m still struggling with that.

1