When Work Hurts: Coping with Endometriosis with Dr Kirsty Harris

Find the When Work Hurts podcast here: https://acpuk.org.uk/podcast/ In this episode of When Work Hurts, I’m joined by Clinical Psychologist Dr Kirsty Harris, author of Coping with Endometriosis, to explore the personal, psychological and professional impact of living with this chronic condition. Kirsty shares her own experiences of endometriosis, including the challenges of obtaining a diagnosis, navigating healthcare systems and living with chronic pain and uncertainty. We discuss how endometriosis affects much more than reproductive health, and the importance of recognising its impact on all aspects of life. We also explore what it means to live and work with an often invisible condition, including the challenges of disclosure, self-advocacy and recognising when support or adjustments are needed. Kirsty reflects on her own experiences of navigating professional identity alongside chronic illness, and what employers and healthcare professionals can do to provide more compassionate and effective support. Our conversation considers the psychological impact of living with endometriosis, including experiences of shame, self-stigma and the pressure to keep going despite significant difficulties. Kirsty explains how Compassion Focused Therapy can offer a different way of responding to pain, distress and uncertainty, helping us relate to ourselves with greater kindness and understanding. Finally, we talk about Kirsty’s experience of writing Coping with Endometriosis, the importance of community and shared experiences, and how telling our stories can help challenge stigma and bring about change. Useful links: Buy Coping with Endometriosis: https://www.sequoia-books.com/catalog... Dr Kirsty Harris on Instagram – @‌dr_k_harris:   / dr_k_harris   Endometriosis UK – Information, advocacy and support: https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/ Wellbeing of Women UK – Women's reproductive and gynaecological health charity: https://www.wellbeingofwomen.org.uk/ Menstrual Health Project – Education, awareness and practical resources: https://menstrualhealthproject.org.uk/ The Compassionate Mind Foundation – Resources on compassion-focused approaches: https://www.compassionatemind.co.uk/ ____________________________ I’d love to connect with you so please come and say hi on LinkedIn or via my website. The Coping With series is available via Sequoia Books and Routledge. ACP-UK members receive a discount on all ACP-UK titles - details are in the monthly members’ newsletter, The Buzz. Do check out the ACP-UK and everything it has to offer.