Creating a Positive Identity For People Living With ME

How you describe yourself in a few words is a crucial part of your personal brand, and it can make or break an impression on others. Whether you’re trying to get a job or attract clients, your descriptions should be well-considered and capture your positive characteristics.

If you’re living with ME, it can be even more difficult to create a strong and positive identity for yourself. The illness can cause a wide range of symptoms that affect how you feel, think and act. It can also interfere with your relationships and work performance.

People with ME often describe themselves as tired, unmotivated and unable to focus. They often have trouble explaining what they’re going through and are misunderstood by family, friends and co-workers. Some people with ME have difficulty finding and keeping a job. They may find themselves frequently missing work and struggling to pay their bills. Others need to give up their jobs due to the illness.

Unlike other illnesses, ME cannot be easily diagnosed. It is often misdiagnosed, and many people struggle for years before receiving a correct diagnosis. Many have to go to multiple doctors, and many have been told they’re crazy or made the condition up themselves.

The illness may present itself suddenly, most often after an infection or surgery; after a major hormonal shift (such as pregnancy or menopause); or from stress or depression. Symptoms include fatigue, post-exertional malaise (PEM), unrefreshing sleep, cognitive problems and orthostatic intolerance. Children and teenagers may experience pain, periods of bloating or constipation, difficulties with balance and a fluctuating energy level.

Research is ongoing to try and understand what causes ME and how it can be treated. The largest ME research project, DecodeME, has already found genetic markers that can predict the onset of the illness and help scientists look for potential treatments.

Some people with ME have to stay at home and are unable to work, but it is important for them to be able to access treatment and support services so they can continue to live their lives. They should be able to visit their local ME/CFS specialist for help with pacing their activities, sleeping aids and medications, and support to obtain disability benefits or assistive devices.

The NHS should provide local ME services and establish regional specialist centres for patients who are very ill, according to the campaign group #ThereForME. The campaign was launched after an inquest into the death of Maeve Boothby O’Neill, 27, who died from myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) at her home in Exeter in October 2021. She had been suffering from severe ME for years and her death was a wake-up call about the need for change in how the illness is assessed and cared for. Campaigners want to see a transformation in NHS care for ME and other chronic illnesses such as long Covid. One NHS doctor who regularly treats ME patients told the inquest there needs to be a local service for new cases and better support for those with severe ME.

What Is Love?

Love is a powerful emotion that can have many different meanings. For some, it is a romantic feeling of passion and euphoria that makes us feel on top of the world. For others, it is a bond of caring and compassion that compels us to help reduce the suffering of those we love. It can also be an intense and sometimes irrational urge to protect our loved ones from harm, even when that harm may be caused by our own mistakes or the bad luck of being born with certain genetic traits.

In the context of human relationships, love often refers to a deep attachment and commitment that can last for years and even decades. It can be a source of great happiness, but it can also lead to painful experiences like jealousy and insecurity. Those who have been hurt by toxic, controlling, or abusive relationships can carry scars that go beyond the end of their relationship and even affect their self-worth.

Biologically, it is not surprising that there is an evolutionary basis for love. When you fall in love, key brain regions light up and your reward system kicks into high gear. The ventral tegmental area is filled with dopamine, which can cause a surge of positive emotions, and even make you want to be around the person you are in love with.

These chemicals can also make you idealize the person you are in love with, creating a fantasy about them that is based on your hopes and dreams for the relationship. As you spend time with them, you may begin to notice only their good qualities and ignore red flags that others might see as warning signs. This can lead to an irrational desire to protect your beloved from anything that might threaten them, including bad habits and addictions.

Some people believe that love is a spiritual experience, and that it has nothing to do with hormones or chemistry. These beliefs can be rooted in religion, culture, or personal experience. For example, Hindu writers, theologians, and philosophers have distinguished nine forms of bhakti or devotional love. These include kama, prema, karuna, seva, and ahimsa.

For many people, the most important kind of love is unconditional. It is the type of love that we feel for our friends and family, and it includes our desire to see them succeed in life and to be happy. You can find a form of this kind of love in the dedication of parents to their children, or the way that friends support each other through difficult times. You can practice this kind of love by actively listening to your loved ones, asking thoughtful questions and remembering details about their lives. This attentiveness will show them that you care and can help build a sense of trust in your relationship. You can also practice this kind of love by volunteering to help those who need it, and by giving back to the community.

The Difference Between Need and Want

A need is something essential for survival or basic functioning. Needs include things like food, water, shelter and clothing. Wants, on the other hand, are desires for items or experiences that enhance comfort, pleasure, or quality of life but are not necessary for survival. Examples of wants include luxury items, entertainment and specific brands of clothing.

People often confuse the terms need and want, and this confusion can have negative consequences. If a person fulfills a need but not a want, they may feel dissatisfied or even unhappy. If a person tries to meet a need but it is impossible, they may be in danger of death or injury.

Need is a term that is used in many contexts, including in the fields of medicine, economics, and psychology. One of the most widely accepted academic models of needs is Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, which posits that human beings have a series of overlapping and interrelated psychological needs, ranging from lower order physiological or safety needs (e.g., food, water and shelter) to higher order needs for belonging, esteem and self-actualization.

Maslow’s theory is based on the idea that human beings are driven to fulfill their needs. People will usually devote most of their resources to achieving the basic levels of his hierarchy, and only once these are met will the higher level desires for self-actualization begin to be satisfied. The theory is not without its critics, however, who point out that a person’s perception of their own needs can vary greatly depending on cultural factors and individual circumstances.

The academic study of needs reached a peak in the 1950s but receives much less attention today. One reason for this is that the concept of needs can be difficult to define objectively, since different cultures have radically different conceptions of what it means to be human and what it costs to live within those societies. In addition, the needs of a person may change throughout his or her lifetime, reflecting changing attitudes and circumstances.

Needs are also important in the field of financial management. For example, when a person manages their own money, they need to determine which expenses are essential and which ones are optional or desirable. This involves making a budget for various regular expenses and financial goals, as well as determining whether large lump sum payments are towards necessities or into investments and insurance premiums.

The word need can also be used figuratively, to refer to the desire for certain emotions or behaviors. For example, a person may say that they “need to be loved” or that they “have a need for sex.” This use of the word reflects the importance of love and connection in relationships. In fact, some psychologists would argue that a need for connection and sex is a fundamental human need, even more basic than a need for survival. A need for sex, on the other hand, is likely to be perceived as a want.

How to Effectively Answer the Question, “How Would You Define Yourself?”

As an interviewee, you will likely be asked a variation of the question, “How would you describe yourself?” When answering this, it is important to focus on your personal brand and the qualities that are most pertinent for the role. A successful answer to this question will show an employer that you are not afraid to stand out from the crowd and highlight your unique strengths, while also demonstrating a level of self-awareness and authenticity.

Choosing the best adjectives to describe yourself requires careful thought and consideration. Choosing words that are overused and insincere may make you appear unoriginal or arrogant, while choosing ones that are not appropriate for the context of the conversation can be confusing to the interviewer. Additionally, it is critical to consider the interviewer’s expectations when deciding what adjectives to use. An interviewer is looking for a candidate who is capable of meeting the demands of the job and will have a positive impact on their organization.

Results-driven

Employers are looking for candidates who are driven and focused on getting things done. Using adjectives like hardworking and dedicated to demonstrate your ability to meet these requirements is a great way to position yourself in the interviewer’s mind. Be sure to provide examples of your ability to deliver these qualities in previous roles and how they have impacted the success of your work.

Loyal

An employer wants to hire someone who will be loyal to their company and team. Choosing adjectives that demonstrate your loyalty and trustworthiness, such as faithful and reliable, will help an interviewer see that you will be a good fit for their organization.

Adaptable

Companies want to know that they will be able to count on you to adjust quickly to changing circumstances. Using adjectives that reflect your adaptability, such as resilient and resourceful, will show employers that you can adjust to any environment and are a quick-thinker.

Whichever words you choose to use, it is important to be honest and authentic in your response. It is also important to tailor your answer to the specific role you are applying for. By reviewing the job description and identifying the required skills and characteristics, you can select words that will best showcase your abilities while remaining consistent with the overall company culture. Remember that if you are not genuine in your interview, it will be evident to the hiring manager and can negatively affect your chances of being hired. Good luck!

What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)?

Myalgic encephalomyelitis, known by the name chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in the United States, is a chronic condition that causes pain and extreme exhaustion. It may appear suddenly or develop over time. It is often triggered by an infection but the exact cause remains unknown.

CFS can be a life-altering disease, leaving people with a reduced quality of life. It can lead to social isolation, loss of employment and a lack of support from friends and family. However, the symptoms of CFS can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

It is important for people with ME/CFS to know their illness and to talk to their health care provider about how it affects them. Symptoms can include post-exertional malaise, or feeling worse after physical or mental exertion; unrefreshing sleep; difficulty with thinking and memory, also called brain fog; and persistent, crushing fatigue. Some people experience other comorbidities, such as fibromyalgia (widespread muscle pain and unrefreshing sleep), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS, an increased heart rate upon standing) or gastroparesis and irritable bowel syndrome (bloating and constipation).

In the US, it is estimated that up to one million people have ME. It is more common in women than men and can affect people of all ages, ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds. However, it is not well understood and is often misdiagnosed or overlooked. The inquest into the death of 27-year-old Maeve Boothby O’Neill, who had ME, found that her ME was not treated adequately by the NHS. This is not surprising, as many patients and families have struggled for years to get the right diagnosis.

There is no cure for ME but there are a number of treatments that can help reduce symptoms and improve functioning, including cognitive behavioral therapy; medicines to treat sleep disorders, pain and inflammation; and exercise programs designed to increase energy without making the symptoms worse. Health care providers can also recommend assistive devices and provide accommodation at work or school to allow people with ME to succeed.

Choosing words to describe yourself can be difficult, especially in the context of an interview. It is essential that you choose positive words that are honest and genuinely capture your personality and strengths. It is also important to keep in mind that your interviewer will be less likely to hire you if you sound insincere or overly negative. So, be sure to use words that reflect your true qualities and avoid haphazardly using buzzwords such as “hardworking” or “team player.” For more tips on how to describe yourself, click here.

What Is Love?

Love, also called infatuation, lust, or desire, is an emotion that can inspire a variety of different responses from a person. It can lead to feelings of attraction and pleasure, or a deeper affection that can include benevolence and compassion. Love is a complex phenomenon that has been the subject of extensive speculation throughout history, particularly by philosophers and religious leaders. It has also been explored through scientific disciplines such as psychology, biology and neuroscience, anthropology, and sociology.

Despite being a universal phenomenon, love is difficult to consistently define. It is often defined as a feeling, while other definitions refer to love as a behavior or a choice. There is no universal consensus on how to define love, and some scientists argue that it is not an emotion at all, but rather a secondary feeling that stems from other emotions such as anger or fear.

There are many different types of love, but the most common is romantic love, which is an emotional attachment that usually includes feelings of attraction and fondness for a specific person. This type of love can also involve a desire to be with that person and a sense of attachment, which is why it is generally considered to be an intense emotion. Other types of love include platonic friendships and family relationships, which may not always involve feelings of romance. Some people also experience erotic love, which is an overwhelming sexual desire for another person.

It can be challenging to recognize when love is present, as it often emerges gradually. Unlike a crush, which is typically a short-term emotion, true love often lasts for a lifetime and requires commitment and sacrifice. Love can be a source of happiness, but it can also cause insecurities that lead to a lack of self-esteem and low confidence. In addition, some forms of love can be harmful, such as abusive relationships that lead to a person feeling like they are not worthy of love or being loved.

If you’re looking for a long-lasting relationship, consider focusing on deeper connections and prioritizing emotional and intellectual compatibility. Getting involved in new social or hobby-based groups, attending events, and exploring your interests can help you meet people who share your values and passions. Focusing on these elements can help you find someone who will be a good match for you and make you feel happy and fulfilled.

The classic movie Love Story is a classic example of the power of love to evoke emotion and influence behavior. The film, directed by Arthur Hiller and written by Eric Segal, is both a swoon-worthy romance and a tearjerker that continues to capture hearts decades after its release. To this day, it has been ridiculed by cynics and adored by romantics. The secret to the movie’s lasting success is its simplicity, as it avoids any overt political or social commentary and allows audiences to become enamored with the characters. This makes it an ideal film to watch with your loved one or to show to a friend who is seeking a deep and lasting connection.

What Is a Need?

A need is a fundamental physical or psychological requirement for survival and quality of life. It can cover everything from food and water to love, connection, security, recognition and self-actualization. These core human needs are outlined in Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which posits that people must fulfil their deficiency and basic needs (like physiological and safety) before they can focus on their growth and psychological needs.

In the context of business, a need can also be a requirement for success or growth. For example, a wellness entrepreneur may need to expand their client base in order to increase profits and sustain their business. Or, a company may need to invest in new equipment to grow its production capacity and satisfy customer demand.

Need and want are often confused, but there is a difference between the two. A need is usually static and doesn’t change over time (like hunger or thirst). A want can fluctuate and vary from day to day (like wanting a cheese burst pizza or a glass of cold water). Needs are generally fulfilled before wants, as fulfilling a need will provide you with the benefits you require for survival while satisfying a want may not.

There are many different types of need, but most are divided into categories based on how much they influence an individual’s behavior and decision-making. Defining what constitutes a need is complex and can vary by person, culture and situation. Typically, psychologists classify them as either deficiency and growth needs. Deficiency needs are those that must be met before individuals can move on to the more advanced, psychological growth needs of self-actualization and satisfaction.

Felt needs are personal perceptions of requirements that do not always align with established standards – like Carrie’s yearning for a NYC lifestyle, designer shoes and dresses. Similarly, comparative needs are the comparisons between services provided in different areas and between groups.

The use of the article is also key when identifying what constitutes a need. Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries explains that a countable noun must use an article when it is singular, but can be used with an uncountable noun when it is plural. For example, this school has a need for teachers.

The word ‘need’ is a Latin word, but its meaning has changed over time. The ancients would have probably interpreted it as a ‘demand’ for something essential to survival, whilst the modern definition of need is a requirement for fulfilling a desire or ambition. Needs are often expressed as wants, but it is important to distinguish between the two in terms of business and personal needs. Identifying the difference between need and want is essential for any therapist, coach or wellness entrepreneur. This helps ensure that they can focus on the right type of activities to drive results and build their business. To do this, it is helpful to consider a number of steps, such as:

Your Strength and Courage Inspire Me

You have such a big heart. You always care for your friends and family, and they appreciate it. I have seen them come to you time and again when they need advice or a shoulder to cry on. You are a good listener and you take the time to really hear them and make sure they know how much you care. You also know how to balance that, and you’re able to give your support without it affecting the rest of your life.

Your positive outlook is infectious. You have a way of turning every situation into an opportunity to learn, grow, and become even better than before. I have noticed that when people see you, they can’t help but smile and be happy for you, because you’re so enthusiastic about everything.

Even when you’re going through your own personal struggles, you find the strength to put others before yourself and care for them. I have learned from watching you do this, and it is a powerful example of what it means to love and care for those around you.

Your sense of humor is absolutely amazing. You can laugh at yourself and make others laugh too, and everyone loves your witty remarks. You’re also the life of any party, with your pranks and jokes that will have everyone hanging on to your every word. You have an artistic side too, with your passion for painting and photography, which I’ve been able to witness firsthand.

I have seen you step out of your comfort zone so many times, and it has always worked out for the best. You are not afraid to face challenges, and you always take risks for those you love most. Your courage inspires me, and I admire the fact that you choose to stand up for what you believe in.

You are such a natural at helping others, and it has become one of your biggest passions in life. Whether you are volunteering for a charity event, lending a hand to a friend in need, or simply being there for your loved ones when they need it, you never let them down.

You are a very special person, and I am lucky to be one of your many friends. You have a bright future ahead of you, and I can’t wait to watch you continue to achieve great things. Thank you for everything you do, and don’t forget to treat yourself with the same love and care that you give to others.

Tell Me About Yourself

When interviewers ask the question, “Tell me about yourself,” it’s an opportunity for you to sell yourself and your qualifications. Whether it’s during a job interview or when applying for a college program, this is your chance to tell the panelists why you’re the best candidate for the position or the class. However, describing yourself in a way that is unprofessional can damage your credibility. Instead, focus on conveying the facts about yourself in an apt and concise manner.

When preparing for an interview, don’t use terms like “amazing,” “genius,” or “marketing ninja” when describing yourself. These buzzwords are clichs that can make you appear arrogant or out of touch. Furthermore, they may not fit with the overall tone of the interview, which is often professional and businesslike. Instead, describe yourself in a way that emphasizes your skills and abilities but avoids sounding overblown.

The National Institutes of Health has recently announced three collaborative research centers to spur ME/CFS research, two of which are located in New York State. These centers will help scientists learn more about the disease and its causes, and also educate healthcare professionals on how to recognize ME and effectively treat it.

As the name suggests, ME/CFS is a chronic illness that has a long duration and impacts many bodily systems. It affects all ages and racial and ethnic groups, but is twice as common in women than in men. It can begin abruptly, such as after an infection; or it may develop more gradually in adults and children. Symptoms include post-exertional malaise (PEM), unrefreshing sleep, cognitive problems, pain and periods of bloating and constipation.

It’s not known what triggers ME, but potential causes include genetics, infections, immune system issues and hormone imbalances. Researchers are working on the largest ME study to date, DecodeME, which will test thousands of DNA samples from patients in order to find a genetic cause.

Most people with ME are not able to work and must rely on support from family, friends and charities. A lack of awareness and understanding can lead to disbelief, mistreatment and discrimination from those around them. People with ME are at increased risk of depression, so it is important to seek support and find a good therapist. The ME/CFS Association of America and the Massachusetts CFIDS/ME & FM Association are examples of organizations that provide support, education and advocacy for individuals with ME/CFS and their loved ones.

There is no cure for ME/CFS. Current treatments focus on pacing, which involves matching your activity level to your limited energy supply. Some medications and nutritional supplements are also used. Some doctors and clinics specialize in treating ME/CFS, but the condition can still be challenging to diagnose. Patients can find a doctor through the ME/CFS Association of America or by calling the Healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222. Local support groups also offer peer support and information.

What Does Love Mean to You?

Love is a complex concept that means different things to different people. It may be an emotion, an action, or a belief. Love has been defined in many ways by philosophers, poets, and ordinary people throughout history. It has the power to change our lives and the world.

For some people, love is a feeling of attraction and affection for another person. This type of love is often described as being romantic, but it can also be platonic or familial. Love can even be a feeling of affection for another living being, such as a pet or a tree.

Other people define love in more practical terms. They may believe that love is a choice to help or support someone in their time of need. Then, they might choose to love others, including their enemies, out of loyalty and respect for the value of humanity. Some people see love as a spiritual experience that enlightens and heals the soul. Lastly, there are those who believe that love is a gift from God to be shared with others and used as an example of virtue.

The many definitions of love have led to different theories about its nature and how it works. Some biologists view it as a natural mammalian drive, like hunger or thirst. They believe that lust is triggered by hormones, attraction by neurotransmitters, and attachment by the hormones oxytocin and vasopressin.

A more philosophical view of love is that it is a relationship that nurtures and grows, and requires patience and understanding. It is a deep and powerful connection that can enrich our lives and bring us joy, but it also has the potential to be painful when it is misunderstood or hurt.

Regardless of which definition you prefer, the important thing is to practice it. If you want to feel loved, try giving more of yourself to others and treating them with kindness and respect. You might also try listening to your friends and family members, and asking them questions about their lives. It will show that you care about them and want to know more about them.

Finally, remember that no matter how much you give, there will be days or even weeks when you aren’t all mushy-gushy in love. But that’s okay! You can still be loving, and the feelings will come back. Just make sure to continue practicing the qualities of love, and you will find that your relationships become stronger and more fulfilling over time. Love is a journey that takes work, but it is worth the effort. So take it slowly, be patient, and enjoy the ride! Whether it’s a romantic love or the love of family, a friend, or your dog, let your love grow. It will make the world a better place. And don’t forget to hug it out. This article was written by Rachelle Smith.