SolveYourProblem Article Series: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Help Me Understand Chronic Fatigue

How To Care For Someone With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

If you are personally caring for someone who is suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome you no doubt are just as perplexed by this illness as anyone. Someone you love may suddenly be unable to do a fraction of what they previously did - and the doctors are unable to give you a satisfying answer as to why this has happened.

For individuals who become the primary caregiver of someone who is seriously ill there can be numerous challenges. Besides seeing to the physical comfort and care of the patient you will need to come to understand the emotional issues they are facing. Having an illness that severely limits your activity yet has no clear cause is a source of deep frustration. Many people who suffer with CFS battle depression and this will need to be addressed.

And as so often happens in these situations, the focus is naturally on the life of the person who has become ill. But the life of the primary care giver has changed dramatically as well. You will no doubt try to rise to the occasion - perhaps taking on many of the responsibilities of the other - and yet it may not seem to be of sufficient help. You may run the risk of becoming not only depressed as well, but physically unwell.

In turn, the one who has become ill, quite often starts to experience deep guilt at not being able to get well again. Sometimes this illness can last for years. They begin to feel like a burden. And though they may be deeply grateful for all that you are doing there may be an underlying resentment that they have found themselves in this situation and must always rely on others for help. Maybe previously they were even a totally independent type of personality and having to rely on others engenders a type of anger where they unintentionally lash out and hurt those closest to them.

It is a complex situation that can only begin to be dealt with by first acknowledging that it exists. All of the frustrations, disappointments, fears and anxieties are totally normal reactions. There is no need to compound these issues with more issues of guilt.

It is VITAL to remember that there is always reason to hope that things can and will change. That working together from a groundwork of open communication you will be able to feel free to express these feelings and then move past them to finding the best practical solutions for your particular circumstances.

If something prevents you from being able to talk honestly with one another about your feelings it may be helpful to seek outside help from others who have gone through this ordeal or who have professionally treated others and have helped them to cope. There are more and more support groups becoming available that will allow you to find the not only the compassion you need but the practical suggestions that might carry you through.

Remember that you will have to keep an eye on your own long term health. This is important and reasonable. From time to time you may need to find an opportunity to seek some rest outside of the situation. By being open and frank about your situation (as much as you are comfortable with) you may be able to have friends or relatives spell you a bit. And if you are consulting with a personal doctor it is necessary to let him or her know what you are dealing with so that not only can they keep an eye on you but as well be there to point you to other sources of practical support.

> I Highly Recommend This Medical Guide: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

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