Chronic fatigue and ME are complex conditions with a range of symptoms. From working with clients with these conditions we can identify 6 quite distinct phases of Chronic Fatigue and ME. These are:
Phase One: Denial (Early Warning Symptoms)
Phase Two: Crash (Final Straw)
Phase Three: External Search (Defined by Condition)
Phase Four: Internal Search (Do What it Takes)
Phase Five: Relearning (Relapse)
Phase Six: Full Recovery (1 Year Symptom Free)
I will be talking in more detail about each of these 6 phases in more detail in future blogs.
It is important to identify which if these phases you are in so that you can better understand that what you are experiencing is very common and a normal part of your journey. Our treatment approach is tailored to take account of these phases and what is best for your recovery at each stage.
In the first phase, the ‘Denial Phase’ you don’t always notice what is happening to our health, as you often find ways to manage your symptoms and compensate for your lack of energy. However, if you don’t stop and listen to your body at this stage, you may tip over into the next phase, the ‘Crash Phase’ if an additional stress or virus hits you.
The Crash Phase is unmistakeable, you may be unable to get out of bed, to function or even think properly. This is the point that many sufferers believe their illness started, but it is actually the point where your body is unable to carry on the way it has been for a long time.
In the next phase, the ‘External Search’ phase, you look for a cause such as a virus or a deficiency that they can blame for their illness, but usually tests come back clear, leading to frustration and fear that you will never get well.
True recovery starts to happen in the next phase, the ‘Internal Search’ phase, where you start to recognise that your lifestyle and behaviours during phase one may have contributed to your illness and you start to embrace what you need to do to fully recover.
In the next phase, the Relearning phase, you may sometimes slip back into old habits as their energy levels return, causing mini relapses. This is completely normal and with coaching support new habits and behaviours are formed, leading to the final phase of recovery.
The Full Recovery Phase is when you remained well for 12 months. This is the stage where you understand and embrace the importance of self-care, and self-love. You understand your triggers and truly honour who you really are, and you are living a happy, healthy and fulfilling life.
If you would like to find out more, book in for your free Discovery consultation where, based on your health profile, I can tell you more about the recovery programmes and you will be able to decide if this approach is right for you.
Get in touch on 01925 730123 or email [email protected]. You can also book online through our website www.cheshirenaturalhealth.co.uk
