Lived Experiences of People Living with a Thyroid Condition

Written by Sophie Getliff 
MSc Health Psychology student at the University Of Derby

My research looked into the lived experiences of people living with a thyroid condition. This report focuses on a small subsection of the data which focuses on young adults. 

This research aimed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare experiences of young individuals living with thyroid conditions. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are chronic health issues caused by the dysregulation of the thyroid gland, leading to either an underproduction (hypothyroidism) or overproduction (hyperthyroidism) of essential hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).

These hormonal imbalances result in various symptoms, such as severe fatigue, weight management difficulties, and depression. The number of people diagnosed with these conditions is gradually increasing in the UK. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how these conditions are managed and their impact on patients, particularly younger adults. In light of the rising incidence of thyroid disorders and risk factors for earlier onset, this study explores the diagnostic experiences and healthcare needs of younger adults aged 18-40.

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