When someone asks you to describe yourself, it can be difficult. Whether it’s during a job interview, a college application or just in casual conversation, you need to come up with a few words that capture who you are. But there are certain phrases you should avoid because they’re overused or can give the wrong impression. The best way to answer this question is to keep it short and simple. You want to make a great first impression, so using the right words is critical.
The most important thing to remember when answering this question is to be honest. You don’t want to tell the truth in a way that doesn’t represent you well, and being dishonest will only make the situation worse. Besides, it can hurt your chances of landing the job or getting into school. So, if you’re not sure how to respond, consider asking the person what they like about you or what qualities they think are most important in a person. They may have some insight that you didn’t think about or consider.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), is a severe, debilitating disease characterized by crushing fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, problems with thinking and memory (brain fog) and pain. The hallmark symptom is post-exertional malaise, which means that physical or mental activity leaves you feeling utterly exhausted and does not improve with rest. ME/CFS is a complex disorder and the symptoms often fluctuate, so they can be difficult to diagnose. The condition can also be misdiagnosed or mistaken for a psychiatric condition, such as depression.
ME can appear suddenly, usually after a viral infection or surgery; in pregnancy or during menopause; or as a result of other stressful events. It can occur in all ages and affects up to two to four times more women than men. It can start in childhood and is rare before the age of 10. It typically begins in adolescents and young adults, but it can develop at any time during life.
There is no laboratory test for ME, so it is diagnosed based on the patient’s medical history, a pattern of symptoms and ruling out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. It can take years to get a diagnosis, and as many as 90 percent of people with ME struggle to receive an accurate one or are misdiagnosed with another illness altogether.
Having ME can be isolating, especially if you have limited social support and live alone. If you need help, seek out peer support groups at Bridges & Pathways or Emerge Australia. You can also call the healthdirect helpline at 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for free, confidential, practical and emotional support. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.