Can people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / M.E. work? What kind of work can they perform?

See how people with experience in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / M.E. give their opinion about whether people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / M.E. can work and what kind of jobs are more appropriated for people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / M.E.

Can people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / M.E. work? What kind of work can they perform?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.), is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by extreme fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and a range of other symptoms that can significantly impact a person's ability to function in their daily life.

When it comes to work, individuals with CFS/M.E. face unique challenges due to the unpredictable nature of their symptoms and the limited energy reserves they have available. While some individuals with CFS/M.E. may be unable to work at all, many others are able to engage in some form of employment, albeit with certain accommodations and adjustments.

1. Flexible Work Arrangements:

One of the key factors in enabling individuals with CFS/M.E. to work is the availability of flexible work arrangements. This includes options such as part-time work, reduced hours, or working from home. Flexibility allows individuals to manage their energy levels more effectively and adapt their work schedule to accommodate fluctuations in symptoms.

2. Remote or Telecommuting Jobs:

Remote or telecommuting jobs can be particularly suitable for individuals with CFS/M.E. as they eliminate the need for a daily commute and provide a more comfortable and controlled environment. This type of work allows individuals to conserve their energy and work at their own pace, reducing the impact of physical and cognitive exertion.

3. Freelancing or Self-Employment:

Freelancing or self-employment can offer individuals with CFS/M.E. greater flexibility and control over their work. They can choose projects and tasks that align with their abilities and energy levels, allowing them to work when they are feeling well and take breaks when needed. It also provides the opportunity to set their own schedule and work from home.

4. Work with Accommodations:

For those who prefer or need to work in a traditional employment setting, it is important to explore accommodations that can help manage the impact of CFS/M.E. symptoms. This may include adjustments such as flexible working hours, ergonomic workstations, regular rest breaks, and the availability of a quiet and comfortable workspace.

5. Work in Supportive Environments:

Working in supportive environments can make a significant difference for individuals with CFS/M.E. Employers who are understanding and accommodating of their condition can create a more inclusive and flexible work environment. This includes fostering a culture of empathy, providing resources for managing symptoms, and allowing for open communication about individual needs.

6. Career Changes and Vocational Rehabilitation:

In some cases, individuals with CFS/M.E. may need to consider a career change or vocational rehabilitation to find work that is better suited to their abilities and limitations. Vocational rehabilitation programs can provide guidance, training, and support in transitioning to a new career path that aligns with their energy levels and capabilities.

It is important to note that the ability to work with CFS/M.E. varies greatly among individuals, and what works for one person may not work for another. The severity of symptoms, individual limitations, and personal circumstances all play a role in determining the type and extent of work that can be performed.

In conclusion, individuals with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / M.E. can often work, but it requires careful consideration of their limitations and the implementation of appropriate accommodations. Flexible work arrangements, remote jobs, self-employment, accommodations, supportive environments, and vocational rehabilitation can all contribute to enabling individuals with CFS/M.E. to engage in meaningful work while managing their condition.

Diseasemaps

Posted Apr 17, 2019 by MEAction of CO

Working outside the home..no but many can do projects on the computer

Posted Dec 20, 2019 by ME International

It depends on the severity. I worked as Project Coordinator in a research laboratory, but had to work from home one day a week. My symptoms are mild.

I previously worked in the laboratory, but had to give it up because it was too cold and physically demanding.

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Catherine 1002

Depends on how severe it is. Stressful environments are not good.I have have no clue about how many work.

Posted Feb 22, 2017 by Karen Lisa 302

There are people who can and do work with CFS, but generally they are those who don't have a severe case of this disease. But those who do manage to hold down a job often come home and can't do anything besides rest so they can go to work the next day. No social life, little to no family life, personal life really suffers. Those who want to/need to work do best in jobs that are flexible

Posted Apr 7, 2017 by Linda D 352

It depends on severity of symptoms

Posted May 4, 2017 by Ben 1079

There's different severity levels of CFS. I farmed & milked cows when I first got it. I'm now on disability & somedays really struggle to do just basic living stuff. I'm a fulltime single mom, what energy I have goes to taking care of my kid.
Hard to answer those questions, CFS/ME isn't a one size fits all disease.

Posted May 12, 2017 by missylob 1056

It depends on the severity of symptoms.
I'm a nurse but it's not ok for me. I must sit down often, I can only work part time. I can't do nightshifts. I have a mild form of cfs. But it has affected my hole life. Of i could go back in time I would nor choose nursing because of my condition. I think most of cfs suffers can only work sitting down or standing for a short time.

Posted Aug 27, 2017 by Emy 2050

Anything, just find your own coping mechanisms.

Posted Aug 30, 2017 by Jaime 800

Yes. It's up to you. You can do most things, just need to pace yourself carefully and rest when you need to. It all depends on the severity of your ME. I worked 3 days a week, but have stopped, as I was too ill to manage it.

Posted Sep 5, 2017 by Shirley 2050

After 4 years battling doctors, SSDI & trying endless meds I am now homebound & bedridden to the point that I have (liquid) supplies delivered, only go out for doctors visits or hearings (SSDI). Working is impossible as any exertion triggers pain, fatigue, insomnia, brain fog in a never-ending cycle. I wear a DNR bracelet as hospitals don't know what to do with ME/CFS patients either, and I do not want them to intervene with painful tube feeding or resuscitation - which would actually kill me.

Posted Sep 7, 2017 by 2560

It depends on the severity of your symptoms. I was a post woman when I developed ME and was unable to continue that job. I have had periods where I have been capable of different levels of activity over the years and have had to change jobs more frequently that I would have if healthy to suit my health.

Posted Sep 8, 2017 by Sam 1400

I have been sick and unable to work since onset 2 years ago.
I cannot be responsible for adherence to any type of schedule. I am sick everyday. I suppose I could write poetry and a blog around my worst days, but that is not a job that could support my life.

Because this illness appears to be a spectrum disorder maybe some people can work. I do not believe that any patient should be a commercial pilot. This is based on my personal experience.

Posted Sep 10, 2017 by Sharon 1500

In my case no not now
As the illness is constant now and im unreliable due to my symptoms
Id be letting people down and worsening my physical condition.
Some with mild cfs ( not m.e) can with support of family friends and financ poss few hours

Posted Jan 17, 2018 by Annette 2500

Sometimes. Each person is on a spectrum of ability which is constantly changing. The best approach is to find a job allowing remote work. Commuting, constant noise or distractions make the day more difficult.

Posted Jan 18, 2018 by Tars99 1050

Some people with CFS-ME can work. Those who can cannot do physical labor, but may be able to work in a field where physical labor is minimal, if they were already in that field to begin with, it is more likely. Some will have to modify the way they work, or change fields. Some may only be able to work part time, some may have to work from home or not at all. I do not know the percentage of those who work. The percentage of those who can work in any field would be 0% in my opinion. They have to modify their life to some degree at the very least.

Posted Mar 2, 2018 by Beti 2700

Work may be helpful as it takes your mind off of symptoms.
Work is not always possible due to the severity of the disease.
Jobs that are stressful are counterproductive.
40 hours a week would be way too much.

Posted Aug 9, 2018 by cathy 2500

I think they can and do for a while, until their symptoms progress to where they can
not make it through a full work week
or even a full work day
and it doesn't matter what field they work in, sooner or later the ME body is too ill to keep it up, manual labor would put you down faster than a desk job, but both would end eventually
the last question is hard to say as no one is keeping a head count of ME patients
but as we are possibly 1% of the population than I would say half of those might be able to work at the moment, is it a good idea to push yourself to work with a severe disease that has no treatment options
NO

Posted Apr 6, 2019 by Fadra 2550

About 80% of the patients cannot work. Others can, when taking good care of the limitations.

Posted Aug 3, 2019 by Jessica 1200

It depends on the severity of your condition. If you can work from home, it will be better for you. If you are working now and your work environment could be made better, ask for accommodations.

Posted Dec 12, 2019 by Joanna 6200

Most cannot work and if they do, it worsens their condition. Many can use the computer and perhaps do some work on it.

Posted Dec 21, 2019 by Pam 3550

Avoid stressful high pressured work environments. Physical work is too demanding. I changed from Director if my own company to a photographer and something I could do from home.
Very low % could work in any field.

Posted Mar 11, 2020 by yasmin1 300

Depends the extent of your ME

Posted Jan 17, 2021 by Emmy 2250

Some people can work, but according to research about 50-75% of people with ME are unable to work. The people that can work, are often reduced in how many hours a week they can work, and they have to find a job that suits their needs (isn't psysical demanding etc)

Posted Nov 18, 2022 by Arlette 1300