One Course, New Lives
“Sufferers are as impaired as people with MS, as people with AIDS, as people undergoing chemotherapy for cancer…the costs to Society are staggering,” (Dr. William Reeves, Chief of CDC ME/CFS Research Program, 2006)
Research during the past five years by some of the world’s leading medical organisations, has shown Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Fibromyalgia are crippling physical conditions affecting people of all ages. In many cases, sufferers never recover and have to live with the condition for the rest of their lives.
In September/October 2008 the ACT ME/CFS Society is running a self management course to enable people with ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) to maximise their quality of life despite their illness.
The Self-Help Course is designed to help all people with ME/CFS and FMS, whether they have been recently diagnosed or suffering for a number of years, whether they are mildly or severely affected. Anyone, of any age, can benefit. It’s an eight-week program, with a 2 hour session per week. Participants learn practical strategies for coping with common problems of ME/CFS, FMS and other related illnesses.
Sharing experiences and ideas in a small group setting, participants develop their own individualised self-management program. Using the tools provided by the course and the group support, the participants will learn how to:
• pace yourself to control the "chronic illness roller coaster"
• set realistic short-term goals
• reduce stress
• manage emotions
• improve relationships
• minimise relapses
• develop your own self-management program
In the words of previous participants:
“Fantastic! Useful tools, encouraging leaders. I can now manage my illness – not be a victim anymore.” J.A. (Now working part time)
“Relating to others who understand that you can look reasonably well but actually be feeling the opposite and discussing the grief and loss aspects have been very helpful.” T.P.
“I found the course very helpful and extremely useful. The content was excellent and everyone participated.” J. S. (Now working full time)
“I can now return home to start my ‘new life’, knowing now that so much more can be done; it just has to be done in a different way.” N.B.
