Many people have to answer this question in some form or another: “Tell me about yourself.” This is often asked in job interviews and can be found on college applications and resumes. But this question is also asked in everyday conversation, when someone wants to know more about you and your personality.
How you respond can make a big difference in how others perceive you and the way they interact with you. If you want to have the best self-image possible, it is important to choose your words carefully – especially when describing yourself to others. Words like “hardworking,” “team player” and “pro-active” may sound great in a job interview, but they can quickly devolve into overused phrases that do not provide a unique or accurate view of who you are.
ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome) is an illness that affects the nervous system. It causes a wide range of symptoms that have an impact on day to day life. These include post-exertional malaise (PEM) where symptoms get worse after physical or mental activity that wouldn’t normally cause problems, difficulty concentrating, unrefreshing sleep, pain, achy joints and muscles, periods of bloating and constipation, dizziness or lightheadedness when standing up or changing position, difficulties regulating temperature and more.
Research is currently underway to find out more about the causes of ME/CFS and how it is treated. It is hoped this will eventually lead to better treatment for the illness.
It is not known whether ME/CFS can be cured at present, but there are some treatments that can help alleviate symptoms. These include cognitive behavioural therapy and medication to help with sleep issues and pain. Other treatments are being looked at and can be used to control the symptoms if they flare up, such as heat or ice packs.
People who have ME/CFS often have other health conditions such as fibromyalgia (widespread muscle pain), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS, increased heart rate upon standing up) and gastroparesis or irritable bowel syndrome (bloating and constipation). These are called comorbidities. It is important to identify and treat these other health conditions, as they can aggravate ME/CFS symptoms.
ME/CFS can have a significant impact on the lives of those affected, including work and family. This can be compounded by the lack of understanding and awareness that surrounds the condition. People with ME/CFS can sometimes experience disbelief and discrimination from friends, family, health and social care professionals and employers. This can be very distressing and can result in people not receiving the best possible care and support.
For more information about ME/CFS visit the Emerge Australia info line on 1800 865 321, or Bridges & Pathways. There is also a ME/CFS peer support group in the Perth area, contact ALISS to be signposted to this group. In addition, the national ME/CFS support and advocacy organisation is Action for ME.