Qualitative health research
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This study focuses on the negotiation of relationships among women living with the chronic illness fibromyalgia. Twenty in-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with women diagnosed with fibromyalgia. ⋯ Often, in the management of their relationships with close family and friends, there was an unspoken awareness of illness effects, and social support was offered. However, disbelief and a lack of understanding often led participants to avoid social interactions in the attempt to hide from the stigma associated with an invisible and contested illness.