From a health perspective alone, TM is difficult. We know that each case of TM has its own combination of symptoms, duration and recovery. You may be finding it difficult enough dealing with discomfort and pain, but also frustrating or worrying on top of that, having to cope with the medical uncertainty. You wonder, what sort of treatment can you get? How effective will it be? How long will the disorder last? Where are you now in the overall progression of TM? And because of the condition’s rarity, you find that the first health professionals you see don’t or can’t give you straight answers. 

As you consider the road ahead, you may also be realising that the diagnosis implies much more than just a medical condition. Your entire life may be changing. You wonder what the effect will be on your job, your partner, your children, your wider family and friends. How will it affect routine daily activities like shopping or longer term events like holidays? Will you fill the role you’ve always filled? Will others be different with you? Who will fill in the gaps? Are they up to it? 

Everyone responds to their symptoms, the uncertainty and the change in their lives in ways that are unique. You’ll need to know the sort of person you are. If you are someone used to mastering life and being in control, you are likely to tackle the problem with your usual determination. If you are someone who always needs lots of support, your response will be shaped by that. But at this key juncture, it is important to realise that TM will make new demands on who you are as a person. 

Ready or not, you are embarking on one of life’s important passages. You may think it is cold consolation, but like all challenges, it has the potential to make your life richer. Unlike the classic passages in growing up and growing old, it is a relatively rare journey. But you are not alone.  

 

Take a deep breath and compose yourself. Despite the fact that TM affects people in such different ways, you’re still certain to find someone in the TM Society with an insight, an experience or a useful nugget of information perfect for sharing with you.