Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disorder characterized by extreme fatigue or tiredness. The most common symptom is extreme fatigue. Symptoms also include feeling unrefreshed after a night’s sleep.  

Causes of Chronic Fatigue

The cause for chronic fatigue syndrome is not known.

Some theories include viral infection, psychological stress, or a combination of factors.

Living with Chronic Fatigue  

Living with Chronic Fatigue can be difficult. Extreme tiredness and other physical symptoms can make it hard to carry out everyday activities. You may have to make some major lifestyle changes.

Chronic Fatigue can also affect your mental and emotional health, and have a negative effect on your self-esteem.

Treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

While there is currently no cure for CFS, there are treatments that may help you manage the condition.

Treatments include:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy – CBT can be helpful. It’s a talking therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours.
• Energy management – where you're given advice about how to make best use of the energy you have without making your symptoms worse.