After a long battle, I am now fortunately drug-free, and dealing with the condition through lifestyle choices, mainly diet and exercise. 

After taking advice from nutritionists, I now follow a Mediterranean diet, which includes a wide variety of vegetables and fruit together with fish and some meat. Although I would like to be vegetarian, I find that, without eating fish and meat, I do not have sufficient protein intake to maintain my energy levels. I am intolerant of dairy products, so have plant-based milk and cheese. I avoid processed foods and additives.

My exercise routine includes yoga, aerobic exercise and using light weights. I aim to exercise most days, but this is dependent on energy levels, which can reduce significantly and quickly, and I have to pace myself. 

However, most importantly, I do feel that I have been able to come to terms with the illness through mindfulness – resulting in relaxation and positivity - to reduce my levels of stress. There are many mindfulness apps, but I enjoyed listening to the talks and meditations on Plum Village and Medito, which are both free to download and use.

I would encourage anyone who is faced with a long-term health condition or other difficult situation to try mindfulness as a way to cope with the challenges that brings.