Having a painful chronic condition like fibromyalgia can cause feelings of hopeless and depression. Members of MyFibroTeam say they experience isolation, loss, grief, and other emotions that affect their moods. “It’s isolating when a flare starts and you have to back out of plans, or you planned to do something you love and can't,” explained one member. “I’m definitely not the same person. I have no desire to do things I used to love, to go out, or to get out of bed,” shared another. One “depression prone” woman asked the community: “How did you accept your new normal? And how did you get your friends and family to accept your limitations?” Members responded with strategies they use to boost their moods: Yoga, light exercise, anti-inflammatory diets, having a pet - and the proper medications. Making connections with others who “get it” is an important part of living well with fibro. “This group is very supportive and I love being part of it. So many really nice, helpful people and I’ve learned so much,” shared one grateful member.

On MyFibroTeam, the social network and online support group for those living with fibromyalgia, members talk about a range of personal experiences and struggles. Depression is one of the top 10 topics most discussed.

Here are a few question-and-answer threads about depression:

• Do you think your pain causes depression?

• How do you handle the mental aspects of fibro?

• What antidepressant has helped your mood the most, over the years?

Here are some conversations about depression:

• Question for those with anxiety and/or depression, what do you do or take to help manage it?

• The worst part of this whole thing is having the desire to do what is naturally a part of me but not having the physical and mental strength.

• My pet is my therapy!

• Bad day for emotions though. Depression seems to kick into high gear at night.

Have another topic you'd like to discuss or explore? Go to MyFibroTeam today and start the conversation. You'll be surprised just how many others may share similar stories.

Feel free to ask a question here.