I have heard most often to just "snap out of it". Like you wouldn't want to. I often think that people don't understand because they have no basis to compare it to. Most physical illnesses can be somewhat connected with as they may be similar to something else. These illnesses are normally like no other.

It is sad that instead of being supportive they take a negative approach which is not helpful. I think sometimes you need to ignore their ignorance and do the best you can. My husband does not understand my illness. It took him a while to get to the place where he just puts faith in my pdoc and t to help me through. It is sad but we can never really talk about it.

If you are not getting support from those around you then maybe you can look for a group that you can attend and be around people that understand. Many communities have these. If you see a t or a pdoc they can help you locate one.

I am sorry that you have heard you are "faking it". If they even began to understand they would never say something like that. I hope it is out of ignorance rather than meaness that they say some of these things. Please try and take them from this angle as otherwise it is very hurtful. We understand and if nothing else keep posting here. I am sorry that you are having to go through this and hope that you find some that understand.