Abstract:
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is recognized as a special condition based on abnormality of psycho-neuro-endocrine-immunological system, which is caused by several cytokines and autoantibodies. For CFS diagnosis, it is required to exclude psychiatric diseases which could cause chronic fatigue. On the other hand, recent studies proved the effectiveness cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT) for CFS. Distorted cognition relevant to CFS includes the characteristics such as over adaptation, perfectionism, avoidance and so on. In the CBT for CFS, it is important to quit seeking physical causes, to accept the pathological state as it is, to monitor daily activity and recognize the cognitive and behavioral patterns which might prolong fatigue, to maintain a constant activity level and to make planned increases in activity.
Source: Yamadera W, Itoh H. Overview of psychiatric therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome. Nihon Rinsho. 2007 Jun;65(6):1082-6. [Article in Japanese] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17561701