Laughter is the Best Medicine

When you live with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) you often wonder when will it all end? When will I ever have the energy again to hold down a job, enjoy a long walk, socialise, and not have to worry about planning my day around my illness?

Unfortunately recovery from CFS can be slow and can often take many years. It is a very emotional time for sufferers, adjusting to CFS and coming to terms with your limitations. But most of all, it is a frustrating period in one's life!

While CFS takes over your physical body it can also take over your mind. I admit every day wasn't easy but I refused to give in and let depression take over. If I was in for the long haul it was going to be a positive one. So instead of focusing on the things I couldn't do I started to focus on the things I could.

I developed a new interest in crosswords and puzzles, which I felt was a great way to keep my mind active and distract me from my illness. It was something I had always enjoyed but never had the time for before. To be able to use my illness in a positive way was the one thing I could control and by taking up a hobby or new interest I could work at my own pace.

I believe in the saying "laughter is the best medicine". If throughout anytime I feel my illness is getting the better of me I am straight down to the video store and hiring a video from the comedy section. Almost instantly I am laughing so hard I have forgotten all about my illness. I am in a better mood and I feel great even if it is only short-lived.

Although it is hard, I like to keep myself focused on anything other than my illness. Often I will become lost in an inspiring book to keep myself positive and motivated or ring a close friend (one who understands) with a great sense of humour. I will write a letter to a distant friend, listen to music or try and be creative. Anything to keep my mind active and busy.

Pets can also play an important role while you battle with CFS. Not only are they a reliable companion but also excellent therapy. I have found just through playing in the backyard or if on a good day I can manage a short walk, my dog encourages physical activity. This can aid in the rehabilitation by increasing mobility and also social interaction. There are many advantages to owning a pet and I know from my own experience that I would be lost without mine!

CFS isn't a life sentence but can sometimes feel that way. The "not knowing when you will be well again" is know doubt the hardest. Depression is a trap that is so easy to fall into and unfortunately many sufferers will become a statistic. I have chosen to see the other side of CFS. The positive side by looking after my health, not taking it for granted, listening to my body, reading the signs, learning and knowing my limitations. I believe that everything happens for a reason and looking after my health is now number one.

Laughter is positive and that is the best medicine anyone can give you! Remember tomorrow is the start of a new beginning, a POSITIVE BEGINNING!

- S.C.