Top Tips for being a Good Friend
  • 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!