Holding Down a Job with Fibromyalgia

Working with fibromyalgia: what you need to know

Fibromyalgia affects people in different ways and to varying degrees. Some people manage their symptoms well enough to continue working without major disruption. Others find that the condition makes holding down a job extremely difficult, particularly during periods when symptoms worsen.

The severity of fibromyalgia can range from mild discomfort to widespread pain that interferes with most daily activities. Where you fall on this scale will largely determine how much your working life is affected, though this can change over time.

Mild to moderate fibromyalgia and employment

If your symptoms sit at the milder end of the spectrum, you may find that work remains manageable most of the time. Flare ups, when pain and fatigue increase, are common, though how much these affect your ability to work varies considerably from person to person.

Many people with mild or moderate fibromyalgia continue in full time or part time employment. Medication prescribed by your GP can help manage pain and related symptoms such as poor sleep or low mood, though effectiveness varies between individuals and some people experience side effects that limit what they can take. Finding a treatment approach that helps you is worth pursuing, but it does not guarantee that work will become straightforward.

Self-care strategies can also play a role. Stress management, gentle exercise where tolerable, and attention to sleep patterns may help some people alongside medical treatment, though results differ.

It often helps to be open with your employer about your condition. You do not have to share every detail, but letting them know you have a health condition that causes occasional difficulties can make it easier to ask for adjustments when you need them.

Flare Up Analyser

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When symptoms are more severe

Severe fibromyalgia can make everyday tasks exhausting. Getting through a working day may feel impossible at times, especially if your job involves physical activity, long hours, or high levels of concentration.

If you fall into this category, your GP may refer you to a specialist or a pain management clinic, depending on their assessment and what services are available locally. These services can offer support beyond medication, including physiotherapy, psychological support, and advice on pacing your activities. However, access to such services varies across the NHS, and waiting times can be significant in some areas.

Some people with severe symptoms find they need to reduce their hours, change roles, or stop working altogether. This is a personal decision that depends on your circumstances, the nature of your work, and how your symptoms respond to treatment over time.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Workplace rights and support

Under the Equality Act 2010, fibromyalgia may qualify as a disability if it has a substantial and long term effect on your ability to carry out normal daily activities. This means your employer has a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments to help you do your job.

Reasonable adjustments might include:

• Flexible working hours or the option to work from home
• More frequent breaks during the day
• Adjustments to your workstation or equipment
• Changes to your duties during flare ups
• A phased return to work after a period of absence

The Access to Work scheme, run by the Department for Work and Pensions, can provide practical support and funding for adjustments that go beyond what your employer would normally be expected to provide. The scheme requires an assessment, and approval depends on your specific circumstances and the assessor's recommendations. You can find details and apply through GOV.UK.

If you are unable to work, you may be able to claim benefits such as Personal Independence Payment or Employment and Support Allowance. These require assessments, and not everyone who applies will qualify. The application process can be lengthy and complex. Check GOV.UK for current rates and eligibility criteria, or speak to a welfare adviser at your local Citizens Advice for help with applications.

Finding what works for you

There is no single answer to whether you can work with fibromyalgia. It depends on the severity of your symptoms, the type of work you do, and the support available to you. Because fibromyalgia symptoms fluctuate, your capacity to work may also change over time.

Speaking to your GP is a sensible first step if you are struggling. They can review your treatment, consider referral to specialist services where appropriate, and provide evidence if you need to apply for benefits or request adjustments at work. Occupational health services, where available through your employer, can also help bridge the gap between your health needs and your job requirements.

Whatever your situation, support is available, and taking time to understand your options can help you make decisions that suit your circumstances.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Flare Up Analyser lets you describe your current flare up and we will help you identify likely triggers and what might ease it. Try it now →