I told my husband right away because one of his secretaries has fibromyalgia and he noticed that I have similar symptoms. My doctor concurred. I also told some friends that were fellow sufferers. Then I told my mom a few days later.

I am still not likely to tell people. If I have known a person longer than I year and/or I have to cancel plans more than 4 times, I usually start out by informing them that I have a chronic autoimmune condition (and severe anxiety and PTSD). My employer does not know that I have it, although I may tell them soon. Unless someone reveals to me that they know about fibromyalgia or have it themselves, I just prefer not to speak of it. Those who have it tend to understand the best.

Thank you so much for sharing your stories everyone. I'm going through the different phases of acceptance. I have to a large extent accepted this condition, feeling sorry for myself occasionally. I didn't share with my sister and mum for almost 2 years as we live far away and that during COVID so that was easy not to share and nobody was feeling well anyways. When I slowly shared amd went for a visit, the care and support I received was so comforting. I know that they also went through the grieving process of the former me. As my counselor said once it is not your job to protect your mum. Let her do her mum thing. Relatives don't know, but I feel more ready to share now.I guess your stories have helped me in excpeting any kind of respinse and just be okay with it. It has been much easier with friends. Some do know and some dont. T They just know that I have a 'condition'. Colleagues have been super supportive. I feel very lucky. I feel the need to share. I'm tired of hiding and wearing a mask. I should start ... Summer is the time for more gatherings and that is tough.
Lucky to have a kind and compassionate husband who has been with aling this journey. Gentle hugs to you all! 💜🌷

It really depends on your personal family etc. Some will accept it and others will reject your reality

My family was scared I had an autoimmune disease and when I tried to explain fibromyalgia, nobody got it.
But now they do. Enough giant struggle days and they get it.