1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue

Seven Steps to Managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

by Karen Lee Richards
for About.com

Updated: June 16, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

5 of 7

Take one day at a time.

One of the most difficult things about a chronic illness is that it doesn’t go away. If you have a cold or the flu, you know that in a few days you’ll wake up and feel better. If you have chronic fatigue syndrome, you know that it will probably be with you indefinitely. Focusing on the long term, though, will only overwhelm and depress you. Instead, focus on what you have some control over. Focus on today.

CFS patients characteristically have good days and bad days. If you’re having a bad day, remind yourself that a better day is just around the corner. Allow more time to rest and pamper yourself on the rough days. If you’re having a good day, then allow yourself to really enjoy it.

  1. Research your illness.
  2. Take charge of your own healthcare.
  3. Develop your own exercise and nutrition plan.
  4. Re-evaluate your priorities.
  5. Take one day at a time.
  6. Keep a positive attitude.
  7. Laugh.

<< Previous | Next >>

Explore Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue
  4. Coping Strategies
  5. Managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome –– 7 Steps to Managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.