Chronic fatigue made it impossible to return to work. For several months I literally hibernated because of my inability to ever feel rested. I lost interest in many things that always brought joy: socialization became extinct, unable to concentrate to read a book, watch a full length television program, (basically during severe episodes I just didn't leave the house and in many cases was unable to leave the bed. Doing better at present after a four day cyclic episode.

Exhaustion. Even doing chores around the house tired all the time drained, mental dullness, 7 hour nap still tired.

I am a young girl that has been very recently diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. I was told by several physicians that I was not experiencing a physical illness, but a mental one. This was not true, and for other sufferers of CFS, I'm sure you know the horrible feeling. I cannot attend school anymore, but my energy level is improving. I have been taking two helpful supplements: Vita-Big-Kids, and Magscorpblex. Also, light exercise every day (walking for 20-30 min.) helps a lot. Remember, everything could be worse, and although this illness is restricting and difficult, it's not life threatening! Stay positive :)

I am not sure if CFS is what I have but it seems to fit. I am a normal 25 year old woman not over weight nor under weight. I don't have an eating disorder and no major change in my life but I have no energy. I get a normal night sleep and I work a normal 9-5 job 5 days a week. As soon as I get home all I want to do is lay down and rest. If I take my children to the park all I want to do is sit. Sometimes I feel as if I lose moments in time. For example when I am driving to work one min I am there the next I am here and even though I am fully aware of everything I feel like I was not. This is also affecting my sex drive, all I want is rest. I guess all I want is an idea of what this is and how to fix it.

I was diagnosed with mono 20 years ago. I am a 59 year old female teacher who loves to exercise, dance garden, bike and enjoy life. When I feel good, there is nothing I enjoy more than to be outside all day and enjoy as much activity as possible. CFS usually hits me in the fall. My doctors think it may be exposed to viruses. Sometimes I am down for a week, sometimes 3 months. This past year, I found a doctor who took me off sugar, processed foods, tried to build up my immune system with many vitamins and supplements. It didn't seem to make a bit of difference. I am also on Cymbalta. I am going on a 3 month bout of "good days and crashing." Some years I am fine and other years I am just wondering when it will end. This is the first blog that I have read that I feel like you people understand my symptoms. Thank you! It was so good to hear other people do too much. I try not to beat myself up too much for that. I love you all and understand your pain.