MONTHLY MUSINGS

Do you have fears about your illness that you haven’t shared?  For example, the fear of “relying on others” or “not recognizing yourself”?

Two recent forum conversations (What part of MS are you most afraid of? and What is your worst fear about PD?) have revealed that many members feel uncomfortable talking about their heaviest concerns with loved ones.  As a result, it’s been cathartic for many to confess their true fears to other patients.  “We all keep a stiff upper lip for our families,” writes one member. “This is the one place where we can speak freely.”

Above is a word cloud of some of the fears expressed in the MS thread.  Can you relate to any of them?  While some members feel this exercise is “morbid,” others argue that facing your fears can help you come to terms with them.  What do you think?  Have you found that bringing your fears out into the light makes them seem smaller – or more universal? 

Chime in on the discussion and discover whether you too can benefit from sharing your deepest worries with others like you.

- Kate, Emma, Liz, Jeanette & Sharry

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Have you poked around the forum recently?  We now have lots of different rooms to meet your needs.  For example, did you know about the Cancer Room?  Or the Endocrine, Metabolism and Nutrition Room?  Find your favorite room(s) and check out some of these active threads below.

• Losing weight with a chronic illness (PLM Room)
• How do you stay positive with RA? (Immune Room)
• Deciding when it's time to stop working  (MS Room)
• Life skills of “normal” people (Mental Health Room)
• Learning patience post transplant (Transplants Room)
• What’s your biggest victory since dx?  (PD Room)

Need help with something on the site?  Visit the PatientsLikeMe Site Help Room for answers from longtime members.