Libraries, hospitals, your doctor’s office, the Internet, and your local newspaper are all places to search for a support group. Members of groups can offer encouragement, an understanding ear, friendly advice, and education. At meetings, fibromyalgia patients can share their experiences without fear of being judged or criticized. Group leaders offer patients and families an opportunity to discuss common concerns, share successes, and benefit from the experiences of others. Patients with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or other chronic pain conditions often say they feel isolated or alone with their illness. Being a member of a group or simply contacting a group leader can help patients reduce these feelings of isolation
Spouses or other family members are often welcome to attend these gatherings to help understand how they, too, can provide a beneficial support foundation at home.
Local support groups offer their own individual format. In addition to friendly gatherings, groups may host speakers to discuss the latest in therapies and treatments, or offer a professional’s point of view in managing life-altering chronic illnesses.
If you can’t find a support group in your area, keep in mind that Fibromyalgia Network has a Facebook page full of daily caring and sharing. Just log onto www.facebook.com/FibroNetwork .