Hobbies and Socializing

With ME/CFS and Long-COVID, it is common that family, hobbies, socializing and other personal interests fall by the wayside as our core work and responsibilities take all or most of our limited energy. But finding ways to work these important “me time” elements back into your life is critical to long-term quality of life. Here are a few tips that can help.

Hobbies

Low-Energy Hobbies

Consider hobbies that require minimal physical effort, such as knitting or drawing.

Adaptive Tools

Use ergonomic tools designed to reduce strain, such as lightweight cameras for photography or padded handles for gardening tools.

Online Communities

Participate in online forums or social media groups related to your interests, which can be a source of social interaction and support.

Speech-to-Text Software: For those who struggle with typing or writing, speech-to-text software can facilitate communication.

Hobby ideas from our BC

ME/Long-COVID Community

Listening to audio books/podcasts
Miniatures (figurines, doll houses, train sets)
Tray-sized crafts, scrapbooking, paper crafts
Water colour painting (small), resin art
Crochet and knitting (can donate to charity)
Easy stretching (one person slowly, gently, carefully “mastered the splits”)
Photo editing, online games
Building Lego
Reading

General Tips

Don’t forget the general strategies of pacing, doing the hardest tasks at the times of day when you have the most energy, splitting tasks into multiple steps with rest in between, and minimizing stress through delegation and prioritization (sometimes meditation and other techniques help as well).

Socializing

Adaptive Tools

Use ergonomic tools designed to reduce strain, such as lightweight cameras for photography or padded handles for gardening tools.

“A change I have made: I no longer invite people for meals. Instead, I bring out the good china and fancy cookies and have a tea party. Just as nice and much easier!”

-An ME patient in Langley

Virtual Visits

Avoid travel by using video calls (like Zoom) to stay in touch with friends and family.

Manage Your Environment

When possible, ask friends and family to gather in low-stimulation settings (low noise, softer light, private homes…). Or ask people to come visit you, as long as you are sure they will leave happily when you feel done.

Scheduled Rests

Plan rest periods before and after social activities to manage energy levels.

Smaller Group Settings

Opt for smaller gatherings, which can be less overwhelming and easier to manage than larger events.

Support and Social Groups for People with ME/CFS or Long-COVID

The ME|FM Society of BC hosts several support, social hangout and art therapy sessions a month, plus additional, periodic Society events, for people with ME/CFS, Long-COVID and FM (Fibromyalgia).

See our calendar of events and registration here.

ME/CFS and Long-COVID Support Groups

Joining online support groups can provide a sense of community and understanding from others who share similar experiences, while also giving you an opportunity to share your thoughts, questions and fears and hear the experiences of others in similar situations.

Illness-Specific Online Social Hangouts and Activities

Choose informal hang-outs, hobby-based groups and art therapy targeted specifically for your (and related) illnesses. This provides both social interaction and activities and interaction/support from others who understand what you are going through.

Go back to “Devices and Strategies"