Physicians, psychotherapists and patients will tell you that it is not easy to cope with a disease such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) because of the multiple symptoms and devastating fatigue that is classic for the disease. There are two sides of the disease that need to be addressed when devising a coping plan: the physical and the emotional. A plan that has the input of all caregivers will have the best chance of success.

Coping Strategies:

1. Form of team utilizing all of your caregivers, including medical staff, therapists, psychotherapists, nurses, aides, helpers, friends, neighbors and family members.

2. Forge a line a communication between the patient and the team. Keep open lines of communication going so that everyone understands what task they are to perform regarding the coping plan.

3. Keep a symptom journal, making notes regarding what symptoms are being experienced, when they start and how long they last. Also not the intensity felt each day. Note whether or not treatments relieve the symptoms (which do and which do not). Share the journal with your team.

4. Exercise that is monitored for endurance and manageability can help lift spirits and keep your body as fit as possible. Stretching exercises, swimming, tai chi, walking, water therapy, yoga are all good exercises. Check with your physical therapist and doctor before starting any new exercise program.

5. Strive for a healthy lifestyle. Ask your doctor if you need help breaking any unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, non-prescription drug usage, or poor eating habits.

6. Form a network of supporters that include not only your team but a peer group of others who will understand what you are going through (other CFS patients). Groups can be located

Other Tips:

It is a good idea to plan your day, so that you can include plenty of rest periods in between periods of activity. Remember to allow time to make nutritious meals. Your body will need to have all the vitamins and minerals it can get to function well. Your doctor may prescribe supplements based on your symptoms. A good plan will conserve your energy because you will be minimizing or saving steps. Plan to ask for help with daily tasks: ask to have your groceries delivered by the store or have a neighbor pick them up. There are also shopping services that you can hire to shop for you. Hire a cleaning service or a maid to clean your home. Another way to conserve energy is to invite your friends in to your home instead of going out all the time. Rent a movie or borrow a DVD from the library instead of going to the movies. Order Chinese food or a pizza to be delivered instead of going out to a restaurant.

Lists will become your best friend. Make a list of what you would like to accomplish each day. Put the top priority items at the top. Do not feel bad if you cannot accomplish the entire list. Be happy with getting the top 3 items done each day and anything past that is extra. Make good use of support team members to accomplish the rest of your list. See if a neighbor can run an errand for you. Ask a neighbor teen to do outdoor chores. Keep your coping plan where you can see it, so that you can refer to it often.