Almost no ME/CFS patients return to work

A recent study from Norway puts it in black and white: most ME/CFS sufferers do not make it back to work. Not because they don't want to, but because they simply cannot.

Always stuck at home on the couch?
For some, that may sound like a lazy dream.
For us ME/CFS sufferers, it's a never-ending nightmare!

We want nothing more than to lead a normal life again. To go back to work, get up in the morning, leave the house, meet colleagues, sit in meetings.
But for many of us, that remains unattainable.

Back to work? Often an impossibility.
When your body no longer cooperates, when even a walk leaves you incapacitated for days, how is a workday supposed to function?

And yet many people expect: “You just have to pull yourself together.” – “Others can do it.” “Just be more disciplined.”

The truth is: We would return to our lives immediately if our bodies would allow us to.

Outdated therapies, false hopes

For a long time, ME/CFS was treated with programs such as “Graded Exercise Therapy” (GET) – i.e., gradually increasing activity. Sounds logical, right? Try a little more every day.
The problem: for ME/CFS sufferers, this is not building up, but breaking down. Many even deteriorated permanently as a result of this method.

The Norwegian study shows that despite such programs, the path back to work is blocked for most people. The reality? Exhaustion, crashes, withdrawal. No improvement, no participation, no future prospects.

What we need now

The Norwegian study is not an isolated case. It reflects the harsh reality of many ME/CFS sufferers – here in Germany too.

What we need are not miracle cures. Instead, we need:

• serious, well-funded research
• genuine support – medical, social, societal
• services that are based on reality – not wishful thinking
• reintegration into working life that is based on available energy – not full-time ideals

This is exactly where my “Here and Now” app comes in.
It offers five game changers for everyday life that can help ME/CFS sufferers find their way back to life step by step – and perhaps eventually back to work. At your own pace. With your body. And with realistic expectations.

Because progress doesn't start with pressure. It starts with understanding.

Finally

When work seems unattainable, new approaches are needed.
And sometimes it all starts with a small step – and an app that accompanies you on your journey. HERE and NOW!