Being ill with fibromyalgia can become a lonely venture if you choose to isolate yourself from others. It's true that most people won't be able to imagine the extent of your pain and fatigue. But there's no reason for anyone to endure the rigors of fibromyalgia alone. That's why it's so important to tap into your social supports during this difficult time. Keep in mind, though, that it might be hard for family and friends to offer you their support. Fibromyalgia is not a visible condition, and you may appear perfectly fine to them. The condition also varies from day to day, making it hard for them to understand why you are energetic one day and bedridden the next.

Just as you need to be educated about fibromyalgia, so too should the people around you. Give them books and articles to read. Bring them along to doctor's appointments and support groups. Help them understand that fibromyalgia remains a medical mystery, one that has no cure but that will remain with you for the rest of your life. And don't forget that your condition will take a toll on your loved ones, too, especially family members who live in the same household. They may be worried, frightened, and sad that you are sick. They may be frustrated by your limitations and afraid of how fibro will affect your future. They may resent doing tasks that once were yours. More than ever, your family will need to come together and provide each other with much-needed support as everyone rallies to help you get well.

Ask for Help

Utilizing your social network means relying a little more on your loved ones, which might include your spouse, your children, or your parents. It might also mean involving friends, neighbors, and colleagues for extra help. You might need your spouse to do more housework, a neighbor to help walk the dog, and a friend to listen while you vent your frustrations. All of these are ways that you can put your social network to work for you.

It's not always easy to ask others for help. But trying to do it all yourself will only jeopardize your health. So when others offer help, take them up on it. Assign them specific jobs like weeding your garden, going grocery shopping, or preparing a meal.

Don't hesitate to put your children to work, too. Even young children can help with emptying wastebaskets, picking up rooms, and folding laundry. Don't expect that they — or anyone else for that matter — will do things the same way you would. Just be grateful that someone is there to help pick up where you left off.

Create Support

Not everyone has loved ones living nearby or even in the same household. If that's your case, you will need to make a special effort to create a support network. Participate in support groups for others living with fibromyalgia. Develop a phone network with other fibro sufferers. Consider hiring some help. Enlist the help of acquaintances for small tasks. If you belong to a church or synagogue, talk to the leader about ways that members might be able to help you.

When you do win over the help of others, be kind and supportive in return. On days when you feel less pain, take time to express your gratitude by baking someone a pie, offering to do something for someone else, or sending a thank-you note. In order to receive support, remember that you need to offer support, too.