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Updated December 2019

I can’t tell my story without discussing CBD (Cannabidiol). It’s made a big positive impact in my life and I would like to share my experiences with you.

I’ve been virtually bedbound with severe ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia for about 6 years now. I also suffer from anxiety and panic attacks, depression, osteoporosis, migraines and insomnia. Desperate to find anything to help, I searched the internet for possible treatments.

Being diagnosed with an incurable and largely untreatable condition is devastating. You will go to any lengths and try almost anything to relieve your systems, and believe me, the internet is full of crazy ideas and promises of cures. While searching through the myriad of possible ‘cures’ I came across CBD. I did a lot of research and it seemed to be a promising treatment. So, about 3 and a half years ago I started taking CBD oil.

If I’m honest I didn’t expect much – I was willing to try anything at this stage. But I was pleasantly surprised. I noticed an almost instant improvement in my anxiety levels and my general well-being. It took quite a lot of trial and error to find the right oil to tackle my pain but for the first time in years I could see a future for myself.

My pain is now a lot more manageable and I can finally sleep. It’s very effective for my everyday pain and my Fibromyalgia flares are less frequent. When I do have a flare it helps me stay calm which I find is half the battle.

I’ve managed to wean myself off Tramadol, Propranolol and sleeping tablets and Omeprazole (gradually) and I feel so much better for it. If you choose to reduce your medication please do so under the supervision of your GP

To begin with I only noticed a slight improvement in my fatigue, but I have severe ME and it’s taken years for my body to get this weak and exhausted. After a few months of sleeping better and with reduced pain and anxiety levels, my body started to respond. I have less fatigue and flu-like symptoms. I don’t crash as much and they are not as severe even though my activity levels have actually increased.

With every day that goes by I feel physically and mentally stronger. Considering I’ve spent the last 20+ years with my health deteriorating this is a huge step for me.

I don’t want to give people false hope. CBD is not a miracle cure or a quick fix. It hasn’t taken away my symptoms but it has allowed me to manage them far more effectively than any prescription medication ever has, and without all the nasty side effects. But you still need to listen to your body, pace yourself and rest when you feel a flare coming on.

The reality is, I am still very poorly, but compared to 6 years ago, and before I started taking CBD oil, I have made a lot of progress. Back then I couldn’t even hold a conversation or read a sentence on my mobile due to exhaustion and cognitive problems. I was having multiple panic attacks a day because my body and mind were so broken. I wasn’t sleeping – at all. My pain levels were uncontrollable and I was completely isolated and suicidal.

It’s taken time but I now write a blog and have a very active presence on social media. My anxiety and pain levels are much more manageable. I’m sleeping for the first time in years without the aid of sleeping tablets. My body and mind are stronger and I haven’t had any suicidal thoughts for over 4 years. I believe a lot of this is down to CBD, it has given me the breathing space I need to rest and repair.

I believe it’s important to take an holistic approach when dealing with your health and well being. I have developed a number of coping mechanisms over the years and have found a combination of things that have helped to improve my overall health. CBD is just one part of this but it has made a big impact in my life.

Please note I am not a medical professional and I can only comment on my own experiences. Please speak to your GP before taking CBD as it can interact with some medication. Please include your GP in any treatment changes.

Have you tried CBD? What improvements have you noticed?

if you would like to learn more about CBD I have a dedicated CBD educational section on my website. What is CBD? Everything you need to know is a good place to start.

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