You might also be admitted to a specialised unit, where a treatment called cognitive psychotherapy may be used. This therapy is aimed at changing negative attitudes and teaching you to think in more constructive ways. At the same time, a pre-planned, tailored exercise programme is often started, in which you and your doctor will set goals for gradually increasing your ability to do exercise. Complementary therapy Relaxation therapy, the Alexander technique, reflexology, yoga and tai chi may promote a sense of well-being, reduce stress levels and help you to take part in the healing process. It s very difficult to predict the outcome for someone with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Recovery can often take a long time.
Periods of relapse may be triggered by stress in some of these people. A small group of people may not improve at all and may become severely disabled. There are local and national self-help groups devoted to helping people with chronic fatigue syndrome and their carers. These groups offer a range of services such as telephone contact lines, meetings and newsletters to help people better understand their illness and obtain informed medical advice about it. These groups also provide mutual support and understanding a vital lifeline for the sufferers of this lingering, little understood illness.