ME/CFS, chronic fatigue, Long Covid, Fibromyalgia etc, tips and guidance.
- s-porter4
- Jun 12, 2025
- 2 min read
SJ Porter Coaching - mecfsrecoverycoaching.com
Weekly inspirational quotes, guidance & tips to support recovery from ME/CFS, Long Covid, Fibromyalgia and related illnesses.
Week 5 - 12/6/2025 (Post 9)
"How well are you responding to symptoms?
In my opinion, how well you respond to symptoms is second only to having a plan when it comes to making progress and recovering. Increased symptoms often get a bad press. They are obviously frustrating and they can make you feel awful, however it often comes as a surprise to my clients when I say that symptoms are the way out of these illnesses. As I have said in previous posts/blogs, symptoms are a response from the brain of a perceived threat of danger. The higher the level of threat perceived, the greater the symptoms (Intensity, frequency and variability).
You will not rest your way out of these illnesses. There is a need to bring on symptoms in a controlled way. A response of fear, panic, frustration, anger and hopelessness will only reinforce to the brain that there is a continuing need to keep you safe (and the symptoms will continue). When symptoms rise we need to respond with calmness, indifference and curiosity. Even be unbothered! This is easier said than done, but it is critical for recovery. We need to do all we can to promote the message that we are safe and the symptoms can cease.
I work with clients on something I call 'Progress cycles'. This is basically a way of progressing mentally, physically and emotionally, by gradual exposure. Too much exposure, too quickly will just promote fear.
Remember, the next time symptoms rise, stay calm and respond well.
Please look out for the next post.
"If it is to be, then it is down to me"
Bye for now.
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