Learning to cope with chronic illness. Efficacy of a multi-component treatment for people with chronic fatigue syndrome

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of an out-patient, multi-component programme developed for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Methods: Twenty-two patients were assessed before and after six months of treatment. Findings were compared with 22 individuals on the waiting list. The programme offered medical care as well as information and counselling to help patients to understand, accept and cope with their illness. Results: At six months, there were significant differences between the groups for fatigue, self-efficacy and anxiety. Overall, 82% of the treated patients reported feeling better and 23% had improved to such a degree that they were discharged from the clinic. The gains were maintained at twelve months. Conclusion: This programme was found to be both helpful and acceptable and may provide a useful first-line intervention for many patients with CFS. Practice implications: Short, pragmatic programmes may be as effective as cognitive-behaviour therapy. (c) 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.