Broadcaster Kirsty Young Opens Up About Living with Chronic Pain
Former Desert Island Discs presenter Kirsty Young has bravely shared her experience of living with chronic pain, describing it as “very isolating” and a “private horror”. Young, who stepped back from the popular radio programme in 2018 after being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, spoke candidly about the challenges she faces on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.
Young revealed that she felt a sense of “failure and shame” about her condition, and admitted to feeling self-conscious when discussing it with others. She emphasized the loneliness that comes with chronic pain, as many people close to her were unaware of her struggles because she chose not to talk about it.
Fibromyalgia, a condition that causes pain all over the body and severe fatigue, is often linked to rheumatoid arthritis, which Young also battles. Despite the many demands on the NHS, Young stressed the importance of taking people with chronic pain seriously and not simply prescribing painkillers or antidepressants.
The broadcaster’s journey with chronic pain has been a difficult one, but she has found the courage to speak out and raise awareness about the challenges faced by those living with long-term conditions. Young’s openness about her struggles serves as a reminder that chronic pain is a significant issue that deserves attention and understanding.
Young has returned to the airwaves for occasional major events for the BBC, including coverage of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and funeral in 2022. She also made a guest appearance on Desert Island Discs, where she discussed her experience of living with fibromyalgia in a conversation with her successor as presenter, Lauren Laverne.
Through her honesty and vulnerability, Kirsty Young is shedding light on the often overlooked reality of living with chronic pain, and inspiring others to speak out about their own struggles.
