Day 1 Day 1

I've never posted in a forum - this is new and a bit scary. But I suppose there's only way to get started. I've been ill with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome for many years, but hit the wall and had to quit work 2 1/2 years ago. Have been primarily house-bound and intermittently bedridden since, and the viral-type symptoms eventually led to systemic muscle tension/spasticity and other nervous system issues. Like many others, the list of symptoms grows. Also like many others, what was once a full and active life is now a living hell. I became familiar with Dr. Sarno's work 8 years ago when I tried to resolve unresolved si joint pain. I made progress but never fully resolved the pain. At that time I never correlated TMS with fatigue and other TMS equivalents. I have re-read his books and others and am certain that TMS at least plays a role.

My biggest hurdle is totally accepting the self-diagnosis. My chronic fatigue specialist believes it is primarily viral, and anti-virals seem to help. So I'm scared to let go of the anti-viral treatment.

I'm accepting of TMS. I fit the personality type and other contributing factors to a T. But I'm not 100% convinced it is the only answer and I feel a bit alone in pursuing this path.

I am grateful for this site, though. And will pursue the SEP despite some of my lingering doubts. Many thanks to those who are encouraging.

 

Hi j.p.,
Welcome to this Forum and the SEP. I hope you recognize your bravery, and your commitment to healing which this work of Dr. Sarno's calls from us. In my experience your doubts do not have to be perfectly resolved for this approach to work. Gently recognize the doubts, and try to see through them. In time, and with a little success, the doubts will fade more and more...

Also I recommend doing The TMS Recovery Program in conjunction with the SEP. There you learn some basic stances to take, and some great basic skills. You can just alternate days and mix them together.
Andy B

 

Thanks, Andy! Really appreciate the feedback and encouragement. Great idea to combine the two. Thank you!

 

Hi, j.p. Andy's advice is very good. But if doing both programs at once is too much for you sometimes, just alternate one program each day, or take some days off.

The main thing is to try to believe in TMS 100 percent. Try to avoid any medication. Big Pharma just wants our money. Prescribed medication often is more harmful than the symptom.

 

Thanks, Walt. Yes, whether to continue meds or not is a tough one. One step at a time. Really appreciate your encouragement.