When I was in severe pain, I was told over and over again by doctors: ‘It’s just your anxiety’

Posted on by Wayne Hughes
A woman wearing a jean jacket stands next to geometric art installations. The scene is lit in purple light.

In 2017, Macenzie Rebelo had severe chest pain, rashes and body aches. The persistent jabbing of needles and medical tests was less distressing for her than having health-care professionals attribute all her concerns to her mental health.