If your friend has ME don't treat them differently
- they are still the same person
Be there if they need to talk
Do your best to involve them in things but take into
consideration how they may feel
Help them keep in touch with what is happening at
school or work
Your friend may find it too tiring to come and see
you - so go and see them - give them a call first
Don't be afraid to ask your friend questions about
ME, or how they feel (but try not to over do the 'are you feeling alright
bit - this can be very frustrating)
Don't be insulted if they suddenly cant make it to
an event - this is simply due to the fluctuating nature of ME. Be prepared
to do things at short notice and to take things as they come
Find out more about ME but accept that the person
who has it is the expert - only they really know how they feel and what
they can and can't do
Tailor your activities to make it as easy as possible
for your friend to take part - this includes finding out about access
and facilities and taking into account sensitivities to light and noise
and the need to conserve as much energy as possible
See your friend for short periods - but often
Write to them if they are too poorly to see you or
email or text. Using the phone can often be draining as you need alot
of concentration.
The phrase - 'you look fine' can be extremely frustrating
for the sufferer. They may look fine on the outside but they are living
with a very chronic illness with no visual signs to it. Try to find
alternative phrases!