A recent review by Cochrane Researchers states that cognitive behavior therapy is effective in treating ME/CFS symptoms. Reseracheres also believe that CBT can be even more effective if used as part of a combination of treatments.
The researchers looked at data from 15 studies involving a total of 1,043 patients with CFS. The studies compared the effects of CBT with those of usual care and other psychological therapies and suggest that in both cases CBT is more effective at reducing the severity of symptoms, provided patients persist with treatment.
Further research and studies need to be done to determine whether or not CBT is more beneficial than other treatments like exercise and relaxation treatments.
Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) uses psychological techniques to balance negative thoughts that may impair recovery with more realistic alternatives. In treating CFS, these techniques are combined with a gradual increase in activity levels.
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