Hi, my name is Andrea and I am glad you found the Group. I read more than I post. I am North American but have lived the last 12 years in Sweden. I am 52 and figro came on slowly over the lasr three years. I am now more or less homebound and can understand the discouraging feelings. In the spring my symptoms were raging. I took a trip to see my mom staetside and had to except I needed help from the airline to get there. My mother seemed angry I was ill and couldn´t stay up late or always was napping. I think it scared her and her reaction was mixed. I had no diagnosis until October and even then she was not so empathetic. In time, slowly, she has come around by reading family support groups on facebook and taking the time to educate herself. I hope your family comes around. We aren´t contagious however love and support are a constant. I advise seeking counseling from a pain specialist if you have not already done so. To get stronger you need your own will as well. I feel sad for each and everyone of us who are facing this bizarre lifelong journey. I started reading and following some "Mindfulness practices". They are selling coloring books for stress and anxiety. There is even an adult coloring book group on facebook. These types of activities can help some relieve or reduce their feelings of inactivity. I am sorry your family isn´t standing with you, bit in time they may change when they learn more about your condition. cyber hug, andee