More Than Tired: What Living with ME/CFS Really Means

Today (May 12) is ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)/CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) Awareness Day. 

ME/CFS is more than just feeling tired—it’s a life-altering medical condition with no known cure that affects nearly every system in the body. 

ME/CFS can look like:

• Exhaustion after doing nothing

• Unpredictable energy crashes that completely derail daily life

• Widespread pain that can be severe

• Frequent flu-like symptoms and increased sensitivity to infection

• Persistent and fluctuating 

• A tidal wave of exhaustion that is far too powerful to resist

• Needing days or weeks to recover after minimal activity or illness 

• Sleeping for 10 hours but waking up completely unrefreshed

• Symptoms that impact multiple organ systems of the body

What looks like feeling tired from the outside is actually relentless exhaustion and other symptoms that do not improve with rest. Awareness around ME/CFS matters because millions are living with this invisible illness, often misunderstood and overlooked. That’s why we don’t refer to this condition as simply “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome” anymore. 

This illness doesn’t just limit energy—it steals time, stability, and the joy others often take for granted.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and shall not be construed as behavioral health or medical advice. It is not intended or implied to supplement or replace treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis from your own qualified healthcare provider.