Here's Some Advice if You've Just Been Diagnosed With CFS

Receiving a new diagnosis can be a life-changing experience. Some people feel like receiving a new diagnosis is validating, because now you have a name for what was giving you pain. Other people feel the opposite way, and it simply leaves them with more questions. Google becomes their best friend (or The Mighty) as they scramble for answers about what this condition means for their lives, lifestyles, loved ones, their present, and their future. 

We asked our chronic illness community “What advice do you have for someone who is newly diagnosed with CFS?” Here are the words of wisdom that they had to share:

Go at your own pace

“I would say to pace yourself. Do a small chore, rest. Break chores into times or rest, times to do part of the chore, then rest, do part, then rest. Let your body tell you what you can do.” — @Veda-connolly

“Don’t forget rest is productive.” — @Rubysunlight

“Learn to listen to your body.” — @Mayanicolaci1

“Pace yourself and stop if it hurts and/or you feel exhausted.” — @Lindaberkeley

“Pay attention to what your body needs and when.” — @Nicolewilkinson3

“Don’t forget it’s not just the physical stuff that can use up your energy but you can also become mentally fatigued too.” — @Hannahlcb

Tend to your emotions

“That it’s OK that you’re not OK.” — @Bpeyton420

“Tell people what you need at that moment.” — @Lindaberkeley

Understand that things will be different

“Make the choice that you want to live and live well. Your life may be different and not what you expected, but it will be a life. Make it the best life you can.” — @Lindaberkeley

“I hate to be the one to tell you, but you are just at the beginning. You will have to learn how to manage your time and activities so that you don’t do too much and exhaust yourself. Some days you’ll feel good. But try not to over do it too much. If you do, it might take you two or three days to get back to feeling like you can do something again. It’s a constant balancing game.” — @Shellisl8

Talk to people who get it

“When laying down for long hours, I listened to experiences of others of faith and how they dealt with all kinds of challenges, most had even more challenges than me.” — @Emeraldeyes

“See if there is a support group in your area.” — @Kittybrave 

What advice would you give someone who was newly diagnosed with CFS? Comment below and let us know.