I too have severe fibomyalgia. I went through almost the same thing. I lost my 5 month old cousin in nSeptermber last year, lost my grandmother in November followed by my husbands grandmother 4 days later. Through it all I had the normal pain and aches but was able to do what was needed. Now I have three children so I forced myself to stay strong through the Holidays. Once that was all done I slowed down but then was hit with a bad flare. I was in tears it hurt so bad. Now I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia almost four years ago. I first had physical therpy 3 days a week (hurt beyond belief) which did not help. Then I was refered to a rhuematoligst who loaded me up with so many meds (pain, muscle relaxers, sleeping pills, reflux meds, blood thinners and anti depressants) I couldn't even get out of bed. But finally, I was refered to a pain speacialist who saved me, my marriage and my family. He installed an infusion pump into my abdomin with a catheter that goes directly into the lower spine. I go in every 2 1/2 months to have the meds in the pump refilled. It conatains a pain med, muscle relaxer and thinner. Yes this was surgery but well worth it. By the meds going directly into the spine it goes to where it is needed without the side effects of oral medication. The meds can be adjusted as needed and can give a bolace amount if a flare arises. From all my experience and research I have found that YES stress does cause flareups along with exhaustion and long periods of over excerting for long periods. I hope this helps you.