Hi @mopo, Thanks for starting this discussion. I think this really goes along with any chronic illness. It's hard to share how bad you feel sometimes and let's face it, who wants to be a complainer. It can be hard to break down those barriers and have open discussions on the toll a condition like PMR, RA, Neuropathy and pretty much any condition that leaves you in chronic pain. I was fortunate to have a wife that was with me from the beginning of my journey with PMR and talking with the rheumatologist who explained it so well to us. He also helped me through my tapering process for which I am grateful for his suggestions and support. My PMR is currently in remission but it always looms out there and reminds me to live each day the best I can. Here's an article that I thought was really good for sharing with family.

My new normal: A patient's perspective on polymyalgia rheumatica: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/imed.1010

You might want to check out another discussion that is not specific for PMR but is on topic:
-- Don't Want To Be a Complainer: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/dont-want-to-be-a-complainer/

Along with the discussion above, there is an upcoming webinar hosted by the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy that you and others might find helpful.

FPN Webinar: How to Talk to Anybody When You Have a Disability or Chronic Illness
Wed, Dec 8, 2021 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM CST
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An EmBRACE It Workshop by Estela Lugo & Lainie Ishiba

Have you ever felt misunderstood because of your disability?

Has miscommunication ever interfered in your relationships?

We all know that communication is an essential part of our relationships and well being. Expressing ourselves and asking for what we need in general can be difficult for many people, but for those of us with disabilities, expressing our unique wants and needs, in a way that feels good for everyone, can be extra challenging.

In this interactive workshop, participants will learn techniques and tools for healthy and productive communication in everyday situations. Participants will leave this workshop with practical tools they can use to confidently talk about their condition and ask for help when they need it.

We hope you can join us live as this special workshop is being offered at no cost to FPN attendees and will not be recorded for future viewing.
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Register for the webinar: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4559936822934676493