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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How do you respond to a loved one who refuses to believe you’re in pain (ex: calls it exhaustion)?

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Santa Rosa, CA

Best friend has denied my pain for 15 years. When I mention pain she changes it to exhaustion.

August 6, 2020
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Answer Summary

Members united around the painful experience of having a loved one dismiss chronic pain, with many describing similar situations where family... Read more

Members united around the painful experience of having a loved one dismiss chronic pain, with many describing similar situations where family members or friends either refused to believe fibromyalgia was real or labeled them as lazy rather than sick. Several members emphasized that true friends listen without judgment and show understanding, sharing how they have had to distance themselves from unsupportive people to protect their mental health and energy, even when it meant smaller social circles and feelings of loneliness. A recurring theme was finding validation and solidarity within the fibromyalgia community, where members truly understand the reality of invisible illness and can offer the empathy that others cannot.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Have your friend read this.
https://notdoneliving.net/openletter/index.html

August 8, 2020
A MyFibroTeam Member

I don't believe that is a best friend. A best friend will listen truly listen and not judge but will be understanding. Im so sorry that you've been friends that long w/o her truly listening to you. People on this site will be understanding cuz they know how you feel. We're here for you!

August 6, 2020
A MyFibroTeam Member

Sje wouldn't be a best friend for long.

August 7, 2020
A MyFibroTeam Member

I don’t think that’s a very good friend let alone a best friend. I know there are a lot of people that don’t beleive fibro is real. I’ve been lucky, my family and friends all support me and understand my struggles. I hope when you said “ex calls it exhaustion” you mean ex as in the one that doesn’t believe you. You don’t need to be around negative people. I hope you have other friends and family that support you ❤️

August 6, 2020
A MyFibroTeam Member

It really is such a "downer" to have people who supposedly care about you not believe what you're telling them. To some people, if you can't cure it by taking a pill, then it isn't real. Just remember the people on this site who DO believe you and try to just let her comments go in one ear or out the other.

August 6, 2020

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