Grief And Fibromyalgia.
When living with a chronic illness such as fibromyalgia, many things in life certainly can add to the pain. There are few things however that can complicate our wellbeing the way that grief can. Whether it is a loss of a friend or a family member, a pet, a job, or a relationship, grief is a tough part of life.
Like flares and cycles of fibromyalgia, grief is complex. Both come in waves. Both can occur with little to no warning. Both are consuming and disrupting. Grief causes symptoms that often overlap with the symptoms of fibromyalgia including:
• Heart palpitations
• Tension and headaches
• Fatigue
• Depression and weariness
• Joint pain
• Insomnia
• Confusion
There are steps that can help to lessen the impact and process of grief. Encourage parents and loved ones to make last wishes known and arrangements made in advance when possible. When a death has occurred, self care and protection are extremely important.
• Give yourself a break. Step away from the situation. Book a massage, go for a walk, or take a nap
• Accept help from others
• Daunting tasks such as sorting through or selling belongings should be delayed when possible
• Stay close to trusted and supportive friends or family
• Keep a routine whenever possible
• Deal with emotions including sadness, anger, misplaced guilt, and a sense of loss
• Ignore well meaning comments such as, “you are so strong” or “I know how you feel”
• Extend grace to those who say or act in inappropriate ways. Do not take the bait
There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Everyone does it differently. Even in grief, “you be the best part of you” and do not become bogged down by things that do not matter. Focusing on the present and getting through one day at a time will make you less stressed and stronger.
