Ep. 96 Fibromyalgia in Healthcare: Anne's Journey Through Diagnosis, Stigma, and Balancing Work and Health

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Ever struggled to manage your health while working in the healthcare field? Meet Anne, a certified pharmacy technician from Phoenix, Arizona, who has been living with fibromyalgia while working in healthcare. Listen as we uncover her unique challenges by keeping her diagnosis a secret from her coworkers due to the stigma. Discover how Anne navigated through the three levels of stigma surrounding fibromyalgia, including patients who don't want to accept the diagnosis and the lack of education in both traditional and alternative medical communities.

Hear Anne's personal story of getting a diagnosis at the Mayo Clinic and the emotional issues she faced at a young age. Learn about the cognitive challenges that come with living with fibromyalgia and how Anne experiences the push-pull of wanting to be active but not having the energy for it. We also tackle the common issue of catastrophic thinking and discuss how difficult it can be to turn off those negative thoughts. Plus, find out the effect of prescribed Concerta her condition. Join us for this powerful episode and gain insight into the life of someone living with fibromyalgia while working in healthcare.

Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator.
If you have questions or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can als

Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.

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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*