Where Do I Start? How to Share Your Eczema Story

"I want to share my story but don't know how to start."

If this sounds like you, you're not alone. I've heard people say this quite often in the eczema community. Getting started can be the hardest part. Especially if this is the first time you've ever shared your eczema story.

Are you afraid to share?

After spending time and energy hiding or downplaying eczema, it can be scary to think about sharing all of a sudden. You might wonder how others will respond, or if they will respond at all. Or worried that nobody wants to hear what you have to say.

I can assure you that isn't true. I read every story that gets submitted to AtopicDermatitis.net. Each and every story has a tremendous impact, and helps raise awareness for the challenges of living with eczema. You never know who will read your story, and how they might be able to relate.

After finally taking the leap, many people will say that they can't believe they waited so long to share their story. Some will even say that sharing their eczema story is one of the best things they've ever done.

How can you get started?

I've gathered the components that make up many eczema stories and outlined some pointers to walk you through sharing your story. While there isn't a single format or structure for a story, I hope these help you with sharing yours, whenever you are ready of course. Let's get started!

Who are you?

Start with a short introduction about yourself. Remember your audience does not know who you are, so include relevant aspects about your background or interests. How long have you been living with eczema symptoms? If you've been diagnosed, share about that experience, and how you were feeling about it.

What are you symptoms? What treatments are you using?

Many people will open up about their symptoms, and what they've been doing or trying to manage them. They talk about their visits to the doctors, and what they are learning about their condition. Have you undergone any tests? What treatments, if any, are you using and how has that been going?

How are doing today?

The end portion of the story usually includes a reflection or an update on how they are doing. Have you made any progress since the beginning of your journey, or have things gotten worse? What mental hurdles are you facing? Have you found support online or in-person? What are your hopes or plans for managing your eczema?

How can you make your story unique?

No two stories are the same. Be sure to incorporate some personal touches to make your story unique to you. Whether it's your raw emotions, sense of humor, or writing your story like a poem or song, your story can be as unique as you are.

Share your eczema story on AtopicDermatitis.net

I look forward to reading your story!
-Sarah (AtopicDermatitis.net Team Member)