Background/Purpose: Fibromyalgia patients often have intense symptoms, especially pain and fatigue. We asked them in an in-office questionnaire whom they turn to for emotional support.

Methods: One hundred and fifteen fibromyalgia patients completed the questionnaire concerning emotional support. 

Results: See Chart

Conclusion: Fibromyalgia patients most often find emotional support from their spouse (63%), but also frequently from friends (57%). They less commonly turn to professional support (21%) for their stressful symptoms. Fibromyalgia likely puts a significant strain on relationships and quite possibly fibromyalgia patients should be encouraged to receive professional support. Rheumatologists should help fibromyalgia patients find professional help for the emotional stress of their somatic symptoms.

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ACR Meeting Abstracts - https://acrabstracts.org/abstract/whom-do-patients-with-fibromyalgia-turn-to-for-emotional-support/