Support groups can help those with CFS/FMS to cope

Although CFS/FMS is not a terminal illness like cancer, it may or may not be with you for the rest of your life.  Each case is different.  The issues persons with CFS/FMS face (fear, isolation, uncertainty, illness and pain) can be overwhelming.  Support groups can play an important role in learning to cope with the disease.  In isolated areas like our rural communities, they are especially important.

National organizations like The CFIDS Association of America, Fibromyalgia Network, and NCFSFA offer free local support group directories.  If you would like a current copy, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the organization as listed on our National CFS/FMS Organizations link.

If there is not a support group in your area, we recommend starting one. The national organizations have information on how to start a support group and how to keep it running.  We found the help we received from all three national organizations was invaluable.  It’s nice to be able to pick up the phone to ask for their advice or assistance or to e-mail them with a question and get a quick reply.  They are very approachable and so willing to help.  

Don’t forget there are a number of CFS/FMS sites on the Internet.  The booklet “CFS/M.E. Electronic Resources.” is available free of charge by sending an e-mail request to:  CFS-ME@sjuvm.stjohns.edu.