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Real members of MGteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Follow-up: If mental work is stress, what about being "present" in real interactions with other people?

A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Vero Beach, FL

I spent the first two years of MG holding off from other people because it felt like such a strain. Being "present" in conversations, phone calls, even internet exchanges, felt like they were too much, dangerous and threatening. Then I realized that I HAD TO strain and push, there's no one around to help. Taking charge of my own health requires a lot of "push." So I've had to force myself to do it. And you all know it takes a LOT of interpersonal effort and force to do that. And I'm POOPED. Any… read more

June 17
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A MGteam Member

Thanks, Marybeth. I don't have the option. My complicated medical situation (much more than MG) requires my "being present" with oppressive frequency.

June 18
A MGteam Member

Hi Robert. Sorry you're having problems. When I get tired, especially at the end of the day, and I'm on the computer sometimes I just have to admit I'm exhausted and stop. My vision gets blurred anyway so I can't take anymore. Sometimes it's a strain to physically talk to someone or I"m so tired and preoccupied with not feeling well that I can't concentrate on what the other person is saying to me. It's alright to have limits. Maybe take care of business stuff only when you're feeling better. Take care.🙂

June 18
MGteam

That exhaustion is so real, and honestly, the fact that you've pushed through it for your own health is remarkable. You're essentially running a one-person operation managing a complex condition — that's a heavy load.

Here are some ways to conserve interpersonal energy while still getting things done: Streamline medical Show Full Answer

That exhaustion is so real, and honestly, the fact that you've pushed through it for your own health is remarkable. You're essentially running a one-person operation managing a complex condition — that's a heavy load.

Here are some ways to conserve interpersonal energy while still getting things done: Streamline medical communication:
- Bring written notes or a brochure to appointments so you don't have to explain everything verbally
- Use email or patient portals instead of phone calls when possible
- Ask yes/no questions to get quicker answers from providers

Protect your social energy:
- Opt for lower-demand interactions — texting over calls, for example
- Set time limits on conversations upfront so you control the exit
- Choose quieter environments so you don't have to strain your voice or focus

Reframe the "push":
The goal isn't to eliminate effort — it's to spend it more strategically. Batch your high-effort interactions earlier in the day when energy is higher, and guard recovery time afterward like it's a medical appointment, because honestly, it is. A mental health counselor familiar with chronic illness can also help develop personalized strategies for managing this kind of interpersonal fatigue — it's not just emotional support, it's practical energy management.

You're not alone in feeling this way. Many MGteam members have shared how isolating and draining social effort can be with MG. Being kind to yourself about your limits is part of the care plan too.

June 17

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