Something that often comes with Fibromyalgia that doctors don’t always mention is the guilt that can come from several factors.  Some feel guilty because they are told their symptoms are all in their head and cannot be substantiated, although this is getting less common as Fibromyalgia is becoming more recognized as a real medical condition. 

Others may feel guilty because there are things they need to accomplish that day in their home or work or with their family, but just cannot muster the energy or relieve the pain long enough to accomplish those tasks.  The constant limitations can cause feelings of guilt especially as the sufferer sees their family and friends working harder to compensate for their lack of ability to help.

The presence of guilt is not necessarily a bad thing as it shows the person has a conscience and is not acting selfishly and realizes there is an impact on others.  The key is learning where the guilty feelings are coming from so you can develop ways of healthfully handling the guilt. 

The best things to do when realizing you are suffering from guilt over your condition or lack of ability to help is to admit the guilt and then begin to deal with it.  Admitting it to your family and friends will help them and you.  It will help both sides to realize that it is not the sufferer’s fault that he or she is tired all of the time or in pain much of the day.  Blame cannot be a part of the remedy.

Another thing that is important is continuing the treatment plan prescribed and make changes as necessary to show yourself and those around you that you are trying to feel better.  When someone is not willing to do what is necessary to feel better, the others around them will be discouraged and possibly angry about their own circumstance.

Many will find help by seeking out someone to talk to whether that is a professional counselor or a religious leader or just a friend who understands and will listen and give healthy feedback when needed.  It may be best in some situations to have the whole family go to a session so everyone understands each other’s needs and feelings. 

Guilty feelings are a normal process that many individuals suffering from Fibromyalgia or other conditions go through, but it doesn’t have to be a part of your life for long.  Learn how to deal with it once it is recognized so it will not rob you of more of your life than the pain and fatigue already take from you.