The Story Behind It
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) International Awareness Day is observed annually on May 12th. This date commemorates the birthday of Florence Nightingale, a pioneer in nursing who is believed to have suffered from ME/CFS-like symptoms later in life.
What This Year is All About
The theme for ME/CFS Awareness Day 2025, “JustOneWish”, invites individuals living with ME/CFS to share their personal hopes, fostering awareness and humanizing the condition. Observed globally on May 12, this day serves to enhance understanding, promote advocacy, and advocate for increased research and improved support for those affected by the condition.
What is ME/CFS?
It is a complex, long term, and disabling illness that affects multiple body systems, especially the nervous and immune systems. Usually characterized by:
- Persistent and unexplained fatigue
- Muscle pain and cramps
- Joint pain and inflammation
- Sleep problems
- Cognitive impairment and memory loss
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and temperature
- etc
Causes
- Infections (viral or bacterial)
- Immune system dysregulation
- Nervous system abnormalities
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic predisposition
- Physical or emotional stressors
Why Discuss It?
- High global prevalence, affecting 17–24 million people worldwide
- Often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed
- Significant loss of productivity, with many unable to work or study
- Long-term disability and reduced quality of life for patients
- Increased strain on healthcare systems due to complex, chronic care needs
- Limited research funding and lack of effective treatments
Prevention
- Treat infections promptly
- Support immune health (rest, nutrition, stress management)
- Avoid overexertion during illness recovery
- Manage physical and emotional stress
- Practice good sleep hygiene
- Stay physically active within personal limits
- Monitor and manage hormonal or autonomic symptoms early
Take Action
- Raise awareness
- Support research efforts
- Advocate for patient rights and healthcare access
- Offer empathy and practical support to patients
Join the movement this ME/CFS Awareness Day by amplifying the 2025 theme #JustOneWish—share a story, spark a conversation, and help bring hope to those living with ME/CFS.
