Support Groups For Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The Importance of Support Groups And How To Find Them

Like most things in life, we find great comfort in finding others who share similiar experiences, and can understand what we are going through. Having symptoms like chronic pain and fatigue can really wear you down and knowing that there are others, who really do understand what you are dealing with, can be wonderful. Although not everyone with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) experiences exactly the same symptoms, just sharing with others who can relate to each other is worth the effort of finding and joining a support group.

Topics Discussed In Groups

To be able to recognize and if possible avoid situations that lead to aggravation of CFS symptoms

How and Where to seek help from other people

Understand how CFS can have an effect on those who are your support, including members of your family.

How you can find enjoyment in everyday life events, despite your chronic symptoms.

Part of the uniqueness of group therapy over any other is that when you are sharing what works and what doesn’t work in regards to therapy; hearing about what you should do can sound less severe when it comes from someone who truly “walks in your shoes”. An example would be, when a fellow CFS patient tells you that staying in motion and avoiding bed rest; helps lessen stiffness; you are more likely to listen and accept this than perhaps when you hear the same thing from a professional.

There are some people that find attending support groups can make them feel more like a victim of the disease due to so many people gathered together with the same diagnosis. If this happens, this is ok. You will be able to explore other support options with your physician. Support Groups are not necessarily for everyone and this may not be your “cup of tea”. Remember, that there is the right kind of support for everyone. A support group should lessen your stress, not add to it.

Cost To Attend A Group

Most groups are free to attend, though you may find that there are some groups that ask for a donation to cover expenses, or some that may ask for a small membership fee just to cover refreshments.

A professional who has both experience leading a group and is also familiar with CFS usually leads support Groups. Most groups contain a mixture of new members and members who have attended the group over a long period of time.

Avoid groups where you discover the following:

(Do not let this list scare you….you are not likely to run across these things in groups that you are referred to by your physician or other health professional)

There is a promise for a quick or sure cure, especially if they are promoting a supplement or medication.

The meetings turn out to be "gripe" sessions

You are asked to stop prescribed treatment and are asked to take something they want you to take

You should never be asked for private or sensitive personal information

There should never be any demands made that require allegiance to a cult-like, charismatic leader

There should never be any fees other than minimal ones to cover refreshments

You should never be asked to make any product purchases from the group

Use your common sense when searching for the right support group. Ask questions of the leader and attend a meeting before making up your mind. Whether or not a support group is what you decide to do, getting some kind of support should be a part of your treatment plan.