Alisha Johal

Cohorts: 20s-40s

Condition: Hyperthyroidism

Snapshot

Name: Alisha Johal
Age range: 22
Life stage: University student (final year undergrad)
Location: Leeds, UK
Occupation: Student, part-time barista
Relationship and family context: Lives in student housing with friends, single, family back in Birmingham; juggling coursework, shifts, and a social life

Health Context

Relevant condition(s): Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
Density of condition(s): More common in women; can develop at any age but often missed in young adults
Key symptoms experienced: Constant fatigue, weight gain despite diet/exercise, constipation, low mood, difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”), always feeling cold
Severity and duration: Symptoms have been creeping in for ~18 months, worsening in the last 6 months
Diagnosed or suspected: Not yet diagnosed; assumes itʼs “normal student stress/tiredness”
Current treatments or management: Over-the-counter vitamins, caffeine, exercise attempts; no blood tests yet
Comorbidities or related factors: Mild depression and social withdrawal; body image insecurities worsened by weight gain

Triggers and barriers

Main triggers that worsen symptoms: Stressful deadlines, lack of sleep, processed student diet, alcohol
Barriers to seeking care: Thinks GP wonʼt take her seriously; assumes itʼs “just uni life”; doesnʼt know about blood tests for thyroid function
Information gaps and misconceptions: Believes fatigue and low mood are normal at uni; unaware thyroid issues can affect young women; doesnʼt know about hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine)
Emotional drivers and concerns: Feels guilty for being “lazy”; worried about her looks and weight; fears sheʼll underperform academically

Goals and needs

Primary health goals: Understand why she feels so drained; explore medical testing for thyroid function; regain concentration and energy
Secondary lifestyle goals: Maintain grades, enjoy social life without constant exhaustion, feel comfortable in her body again
What “better” looks like to them: Feeling energised, being able to keep up with studies and nights out, reclaiming confidence

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