by Tess Boardman

Created on: June 30, 2009   Last Updated: April 16, 2011

Fibromyalgia, a widely misunderstood disease with life changing symptoms, can be a distressing diagnosis. Finding useful coping strategies is a challenge and individuals respond differently to each solution. Medications, diet, exercise, stress and other factors all play into a sense of well-being. Fibromyalgia is gaining understanding in the medical community and the list of resources available to fibromyalgia patients is growing.

There are several websites that give good information for fibromyalgia:

- The National Fibromyalgia Association has a comprehensive website with resources, community links, study information, and newsletters.

- The Fibromyalgia Resource Center has a well organized website featuring information on symptoms, treatment strategies, and support resources.

- WebMD has a fibromyalgia section that offers a quiz to check your symptoms, medication options, and exercise tips.

- Online support communities, such as the Fibromyalgia zone on Helium, can connect you with others with fibro. This can be a valuable aspect of managing your care, as you can discover coping strategies, get moral support, and offer your own experiences.

You don't have to limit yourself to online resources. You can find a support group in your community. Many people benefit from support groups, even if they just go and listen to the stories of other sufferers. Do not limit yourself to just fibromyalgia, as groups for chronic fatigue and chronic pain can be viable support options. These groups will help you feel connected with people who understand your symptoms and challenges.

Check with your local hospitals, as they can often give you a list of support groups that fit your needs. Some hospitals may offer support programs as part of their rheumatology or chronic pain departments. Your local newspaper may publish a list of support groups. If you are not sure which day of the week this is published, give them a call. Ask your doctor or primary care provider. They have the ability to tap into medical community resources. Perhaps there is a teaching hospital nearby that has a study center that can offer new avenues of treatment and support. Do not assume this information will be offered just because your provider is aware of your diagnosis.

If you are looking for natural and alternative therapies, Prevention.com offers vitamin and holistic approaches. Another website, Holistic Online.com , gives a list of herbal remedies; however, remember to check with your doctor or pharmacist

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