Managing fatigue transdiagnostically: a qualitative study among people with chronic conditions on optimizing daily activity
Creators: name: Barakou, Ioulia
name: Hackett, Katie L.
name: Abonie, Ulric S.
name: Hettinga, Florentina J.
name: Finch, Tracy
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2024
Subjects: subject: Microbiology
subject: FOS: Biological sciences
subject: Ecology
subject: Science Policy
subject: Sociology
subject: FOS: Sociology
subject: Biological Sciences not elsewhere classified
subject: Mental Health

description: To explore fatigue and physical activity behavior experiences and management, with an emphasis on activity pacing among adults with chronic conditions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 adults with chronic conditions and the symptoms of chronic fatigue who had either received or not received fatigue management advice. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, then analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Participants reported barriers to fatigue management such as overactivity, mental health issues, and workplace challenges. Additionally, they highlighted rest, restful activities, and supportive social environment as facilitators of effective fatigue management, along with the importance of nutrition and physical activity. In some cases, there were conflicting experiences with social environment and physical activity. Activity pacing was identified as a promising solution and participants recommended several strategies for future consideration. Participants identified fatigue as a significant denominator in daily living and recognized the importance of activity pacing in fatigue management. Through reflective processes, they uncovered crucial factors for effective fatigue management, highlighting a multidimensional, interdisciplinary, and tailored approach to activity pacing as a promising solution. Further research should explore clinicians’ perspectives of a multidimensional fatigue management approach to further support optimal intervention design. Fatigue was perceived commonly across various chronic conditions, extending beyond mere tiredness and diminishing individuals’ capacity to perform daily activities.Rehabilitation professionals might incorporate activity pacing strategies tailored to each individual’s needs to effectively manage fatigue across chronic conditions.A multidimensional approach, including physical, psychological, and social interventions, is suggested for comprehensive fatigue management in rehabilitation.Facilitating rest and fostering a supportive social environment might be integral components of rehabilitation process to enhance the effectiveness of fatigue management Fatigue was perceived commonly across various chronic conditions, extending beyond mere tiredness and diminishing individuals’ capacity to perform daily activities. Rehabilitation professionals might incorporate activity pacing strategies tailored to each individual’s needs to effectively manage fatigue across chronic conditions. A multidimensional approach, including physical, psychological, and social interventions, is suggested for comprehensive fatigue management in rehabilitation. Facilitating rest and fostering a supportive social environment might be integral components of rehabilitation process to enhance the effectiveness of fatigue management