No....it’s not just in your mind. I think once you are diagnosed you become much more aware of what’s happening to you. Like you said, everyone is different. I started with movement in my tummy and did a dance step back and forth. My hand writing was a mess and got smaller and smaller. I knew nothing about Pd back then. I was finally diagnosed, it took years, and things finally started to make sense. CL really helped me so much. But exhaustion is the worst thing I have ever had to deal with. I have read how others thought they were just getting lazy etc. I find that staying active and busy is best for most of us. It’s easy to say but very hard to do some times. Hang in there and be kind to yourself.

For the longest time after diagnosis, I thought it was in my head, which led to feelings of guilt. It took several years to realize this was a function of the disease as much as tremors or other symptoms. That eliminated the guilt but still left the fatigue to deal with.

By the way, Lori Ann,
I am 58 and retired last year. 🤗

LoriAnne,
Your story sounds a lot like mine. I had tremors for at least 3 years before being diagnosed. They thought I had a pinched nerve in my neck, thought I'd had a stroke..... Tried all kinds of tests until I found a movement Disorder specialist who diagnosed me the first time I saw him.
I had the trembling inside my legs and everything. Once diagnosed, I don't think I felt worse, I actually felt better because we were doing something about it. It does seem like even though I was put on PD meds, the symptoms would come back stronger and we would have to increase meds. I had DBS surgery last Fall and have taken away most of my meds. I'm doing well, but even then, i have to increase my stimulation every couple of months. I hope this helps. You are not alone.
Blessings, Karen