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How Do You Handle Family And Friends Turning A Deaf Ear When You Say You're In Pain?

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Melbourne, FL
July 3, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members shared the isolating experience of having family and friends dismiss or ignore their pain, with many choosing to limit how much they... Read more

Members shared the isolating experience of having family and friends dismiss or ignore their pain, with many choosing to limit how much they share to avoid judgment or conflict, while others described feeling caught between speaking up and being accused of complaining or staying silent and being blamed for not communicating. Several members found their closest support in spouses who could recognize pain without words, online fibromyalgia communities who truly understood, and a few thoughtful friends who checked in regularly, while others have reduced contact with unsupportive family members to protect their mental health. A recurring theme was the exhausting emotional labor of deciding who deserves to know, frontloading explanations before pain impacts others, and grieving relationships lost to a lack of empathy or willingness to understand invisible illness.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Thanks to all my fibro warriors for taking time to reply. I find it frustrating and at times it makes me angry when I say I'm in pain and I'm ignored...and it's like they don't even hear me. I guess they think if they do that enough, I'll stop complaining...and I don't think I complain or comment about my pain too much...just can't win...if I don't say anything then my family members say:"why didn't you say something"? Just a losing battle I guess. Thanks again for your help.

July 4, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

I don't handle it very well!! My friend list has dropped and the family who don't understand or at least try to understand, I don't really have much contact with anymore!

July 3, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

I just suffered through it. I'm so tired of explaining how difficult some days are to someone who actually doesn't care one bit and can't emphasize. Kinda used to it. By the way, my symptoms have very much decreased since 4 weeks ago I started to use organic vitamin D and magnesium. The pain is still here but it's much more bearable. I'm hoping as I keep using those vitamins, I'll get even less sore.

July 6, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

Goodness

July 4, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

I make my visits short..if I feel pain rising..because most people will not understand...I do find Fibro friends are the best to have..because they understand..and they are not upset..they get it..

July 6, 2017

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