I think other people can't really identify with it. They see it as a problem with uncleanliness or bad acne when it's so much more. People often connect because of shared experiences. If they've never had a giant pussball under their arm for three months they can't really relate. I don't think it's a rejection of you as much as they don't know how much you suffer. If you need her, say so. I bet your sister would talk to you more if she knew you needed it. People have a hard time seeing past themselves and they need a little heads up sometimes.

thank you for this. You are so right. Sometimes i need to step back and really analyze thing. My anxiety just takes over. THANK U FOR THE RESPONSE

No problem! I hope you start connecting with your loved ones better :)

It is unfortunate but true people don't usually understand something until it happens to them. Especially because the bumps aren't usually in clear view (I think we've all gotten really good at hiding them-unless one bursts in public on a day you decided to risk wearing a lighter colored clothing and you didn't notice because you're always in pain anyway).

But yeah when I have a bad outbreak I usually ask my family for help grabbing things so I don't have to move as much. I usually just get called lazy and then if I feel like it I'll explain that I have those bumps again and even little movements hurt. Sometimes I feel like they don't believe me but then I noticed that the more vocal (not complaining) but just outwardly acknowledging the pain the more they start to understand. You gotta remember that if you don't say what's going on with you they won't even be able to begin to understand.

I also feel like people who suffer from this have higher pain tolerances then most other people, like we're usually not going to complain unless it is really bad. So I totally understand your frustration when you don't get the response you want on your family. Just keep working on them, I hope they begin to understand.

Hi I know this is a late reply but I've just joined. im 25 from Manchester UK. I know that other people dont understand, because I was the same with depression and anxiety. before I experienced it I used to think 'aw thats sad but it cant be worse than a broken leg' until I had my first panic attack and I literally felt like I was going to die. So I dont get angry if people dont give me too much sympathy about my HS. I have to focus on how having my the condition makes me more caring, humble and a nicer person. Having to deal with it makes us strong. and it sounds like you especially are a trooper. Just try and stay positive. x

Hey guys! My name is Cindy and I've been suffering from HS for about 4 years now, I recently created a blog where I talked about how I was able to put mine into remission and everything that I've tried. If you guys want to check it out the link is : www.sweattearsandthesea.weebly.com
hope it helps!