(Untitled)

[maryhowardfairy]

I don't know what to do. I was diagnosed with M.E. about 3 years ago but up untill June this year I was OK to work a part time job. I left my job of my own accord as it was making me really ill, and the doctor signed me off for 6 months with, get this, depression

Comments

[belle_marmotte]

It's really important that you get seen by a supportive GP. You need someone who understands that ME is a long-term condition.

I have a friend who is in exactly the same boat as you at present. Her GP insists on signing her off with 'depression' even though he has told her she doesn't seem depressed and appears to have some 'fatigue based illness'

The reason that it is imperative to get the support of a doctor behind you, is that you'll probably need to apply for some disability benefits in the near future. If you can't walk more than a few steps without pain then you are entitled to some mobility payment. If you can't get in and out of the bath without help, or even brush your hair, you need the care component of DLA.

I would suggest your first port of call would be to get in touch with your local ME group for South Wales. They will have a lot of information that will be very useful to you. They may not be able to recommend a GP in their official capacity, however if you talk to other members (often groups have a phone contact if you can't do this in person), you'll find there is a lot of information out there on the ME 'grapevine'.

Hope you get some joy soon,

Hugs
M