newlifeoutlook
Awareness

How and Why to Raise Fibromyalgia Awareness

Feb 1, 2017
  • Emotional Validation
  • Practical Solution
Form that reads "diagnosis: fibromyalgia" with stethoscope

Raising Fibromyalgia Awareness

As many of us are well aware, fibromyalgia is a chronic illness that is not readily understood by doctors, much less the general public. Sadly, unless someone has fibromyalgia, or has a close friend or relative with it, they generally don't know what this illness is.

Fibromyalgia is starting to be recognized for what it is: a chronic disorder that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, tenderness in key areas and fatigue, among other health problems not limited to nerve-related and gastrointestinal issues. But even those who have heard of it or know someone who has it don’t know how all encompassing it is. They are not aware of how it affects every aspect of our life.

If you have fibromyalgia, you may have encountered many people, even in healthcare settings, who deny that such a condition exists. Some people may believe that it’s all in your head, question whether or not fibromyalgia is real, or think you are seeking attention.

It’s not uncommon to hear others make unkind remarks when they learn someone has fibro. Even those who genuinely mean well may make thoughtless comments.

Unfortunately, even when you know the intention is good, it still hurts.

If you are hoping to break through these barriers, build fibromyalgia awareness, and to show fibromyalgia is a very real disease that is recognized by many health professionals, you should become an advocate for fibromyalgia.

The more that the general population knows about this condition, the more can be done about it. It needs to be taken seriously.

Shying Away

These negative experiences understandably make some shy away from discussing their illness openly.

I myself was hesitant to talk about how I felt for a long time. I kept many of the physical symptoms I had to myself.

But more than that, I kept the way it affected me mentally and emotionally to myself. Comments about how others had it worse, or that I needed more faith, felt like stabs to my heart.

However, as the years went on, I eventually realized I could not expect someone to understand what I was going through if I was unwilling to share my experience. I knew that speaking out would inevitably lead to some heartache, but my desire to help others outweighed my desire to protect myself from hurtful words.

I personally find it easier to express myself in written word. It is also easier for me to share such personal information when I am not face-to-face with someone.

So, I chose to start writing my experience. I started a blog and multiple social media accounts to share what my life really was like.

Opening Up

This has been an enlightening experience. Many of the people in my own life are now better able to understand what I am dealing with, as I am considerably more comfortable sharing in this way.

I have gotten in contact with others who are in the same position that I am. There is very little that can compare to finding someone who knows just what you are feeling and experiencing.

You May Also Like:Understanding Chiropractic Care for Fibromyalgia
Related Search Topics (Ads):
  • Rheumatology Fibromyalgia
  • RA & Fibromyalgia Treatments
  • Chronic Pain Relief
  • Fibromyalgia Muscle Pain Relief

But the best is when others with relatives who have fibromyalgia reach out and say they now better understand what their loved one is dealing with. That is why I am here.

I don't speak out to get attention or pity — I honestly do not want those things. I speak out because I know there is a need to spread awareness.

I know how incredibly scary it can be to feel so open and vulnerable. But if we don't speak out to raise awareness, how can we ever expect those we meet to understand?

How Do You Go About Raising Awareness?

Well that all depends on what you are comfortable with!

You may choose to start by being more verbal about how you feel and how that affects you. Or you may feel more comfortable sharing articles about fibromyalgia with your loved ones or coworkers.

If you do not feel you are able to share with those you know personally, why not start by opening an anonymous social media account? You can always work up the courage there.

There are many ways to raise awareness and you have to find a way that you personally are comfortable with. Just keep in mind that any negative experiences you may have will pale in comparison to the many benefits of raising fibromyalgia awareness!

  • 1
  • 2
Next

Next page: How to raise fibromyalgia awareness.

Adriel Maldonado
Adriel is a wife, mother, blogger, amateur cook, and fibromyalgia sufferer. She wants to share her story to help others understand what life with fibromyalgia is like and to offer comfort and support for fellow sufferers. Adriel shares her insights into life with fibro on her blog. See all of Adriel's articles
More Articles by Adriel
Yvonne Banks
Yvonne is a licensed practical nurse who has a passion for helping people to improve their health conditions. Practicing since 2001, she has worked with both geriatric and pediatric patients during the course of her career.
Print This

We all have a voice,what's your story?

We learn from each other. Share your story to let others with know they’re not alone.

Share Your Story

FibromyalgiaNewsletter Sign-up

Stay up-to-date with all the latest news, articles, and updates from your community!

Subscribe Now

Join our private Facebook Group

to ask questions, get answers, and find support from fellow Warriors!

Join the Discussion
Print This
ConnectWithUs
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Disclaimer
© 2023 NewLifeOutlook™ All rights reserved.
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
© 2023 NewLifeOutlook | Fibromyalgia