Article Psychology today - How to Stay at Home : Jenny Spotila

[Sly Saint]

I’m thrilled to share this guest post by Jennie Spotila. Jennie is one of the top patient-advocates for myalgic encephalomyelitis (also known as ME/CFS, which replaces the outdated and misleading name “chronic fatigue syndrome”). Like me, she came down with a viral infection and never recovered. For the past 25 years, she has worked tirelessly, mostly from home, sometimes from bed, to educate people about the illness and, most importantly, to try and secure funding for research. Her friendship sustains me personally and inspires me to help others. I’m so happy to be able to share her thoughts with you.

Lockdown has been easier for my husband and me because it’s our normal way of life. I have myalgic encephalomyelitis and have been largely housebound for more than 25 years. Five years ago, my husband suffered a stroke after a neck injury, and he became largely housebound as well. We’ve already been through the struggle of adjusting to a shut-in life. What we learned may help you cope with spending most of your time at home, even if those around you are getting back to normal.

I hope what works for us will work for you, but everyone’s circumstances are so different. Even if my suggestions don’t resonate with you, you might be able to use them as a starting point for your own solutions.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/turning-straw-gold/202007/how-stay-home