1. Don't Be Too Hard on Yourself
When I first started having these fluctuations in my emotions, I felt frustrated with myself. I am not the kind of person that is ruled by emotion, but I'm not heartless either. And I would try to convince myself that what I was feeling was wrong.
I also tried to hide these emotions, thinking everyone else would think I was crazy. I thought I was crazy, so why wouldn't they?
But I now know that not only did that not help, it made things worse. I have to accept that I don't always react appropriately for the situation, and I simply cannot help that.
I have also found that it is vital to have a few people that I can talk to, people that I can be completely open with. I know they will listen and not judge me. Talking to them can be a huge weight off my chest.
2. Avoid Emotional Triggers
This may not always be possible, but let's consider a possible scenario. You are having an overly emotional day, and someone invites you over to watch that really sappy chick flick that always makes you cry. Maybe today isn't the best day for that.
Another scenario – if you have been wanting to confront someone about an issue, wait for a day when you feel a little more emotionally stable before talking with them. Or if it's something that can't wait, make notes of everything you want to cover. That way if you do get emotional and get off track, you will still be able to cover everything that you needed to.
3. Explain the Situation to Friends and Family
Even if everyone does not fully understand what you are going through, talking it over with them may help them be a little more patient with you. It may also help avoid hurt feelings if you are experiencing a lack of emotions to a situation that is emotionally charged for them.
I wish I could say that there is an easy fix for the emotional roller coaster we fibromyalgia sufferers seem to be on. But as with many other aspects of this illness we simply have to learn how to cope the best we can.
It may not be an easy path, but we have survived much worse.
