Join Us in Dispelling Myths About ME/CFS and Long-COVID!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our "Dispelling Myths" campaign, a vital initiative aimed at tackling the misconceptions surrounding ME/CFS and Long-COVID. These conditions affect millions, yet misinformation can lead to stigma, misunderstanding and even harmful treatments. Our goal is to provide evidence-based content and foster a supportive community for those impacted.

What You Can Expect: Over the next six weeks, we will publish a series of blog posts, each designed to debunk two to three common myths. Our first post is attached, where we tackle some prevalent misconceptions, including the harmful notion that ME/CFS is "just in your head" and misinterpretations of its associated pain.

Engage With Us: We invite you to connect with us on social media! Share your experiences, ask questions, and use our hashtags—#MECFSMyths and #LongCOVIDAwareness—to help spread the word. Your voice is essential in raising awareness and fostering understanding within our community.

In addition, we are in the process of organizing a live Q&A with a healthcare professional! While the date and professional are still to be confirmed, we invite you to send in any topics or myths you'd like us to address. Your input is invaluable in shaping this event.

Stay tuned for more updates and resources as we work to dispel myths and promote accurate information.

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Debunking Myths Around ME/CFS and Long COVID

Let’s dive into the first set of myths, debunking misconceptions with the facts and stories that truly matter and empower our community with knowledge.

The Nature of ME/CFS: One common myth is that ME/CFS is "just in your head." In reality, ME/CFS involves real physiological changes, including immune dysfunction and neuroinflammation. It is crucial to recognize that this condition is not psychological. Understanding the true biological nature of ME/CFS (and Long-COVID) can help dispel stigma and lead to safer, more effective support and treatment strategies.

Pain in ME/CFS: Another misconception is that ME/CFS pain fits neatly under Central Sensitivity Syndrome (CSS). The argument is that the pain is caused solely by a central nervous system dysfunction, often leading to an incorrect interpretation of the illness as predominantly based on psychological and social factors, rather than biological ones. Current research indicates that the source of pain in ME/CFS is complex, involving:

• Mitochondrial dysfunction (affecting energy production)

• Muscle-specific mechanisms and disturbances

• Immune abnormalities

• Widespread inflammation.

  
  

This multifaceted nature of ME/CFS pain highlights the importance of moving beyond outdated oversimplifications to understand and address the condition effectively.

The Misclassification Trap: Labeling ME/CFS as merely a subset of CSS (or any other oversimplification) can be dangerous. It risks overlooking key elements of the condition, such as Post Exertional Malaise (PEM) - a worsening of symptoms following exertion. This oversight can lead to potentially harmful advice, such as "just exercise more". ME/CFS requires specific, tailored care—not a one-size-fits-all approach. Recognizing its unique characteristics is essential for providing safe and effective treatment.

Join us as we continue to share insights, dispel myths, and build a stronger, more informed community. Stay tuned for our next post and additional resources!

If there are specific myths you would like to see covered please email us at executivedirector@mefm.bc.ca.