TREATMENT DATABASE

The Amygdala Retraining Program (ARP), or the Gupta Programme, is a combination of meditation, visualization and self-guided therapy techniques developed by Ashok Gupta. Gupta's theory is that ME/CFS is caused by trauma to the amygdala, which is the part of the limbic system most closely associated with learning and fear responses.

According to Gupta, during the acute physical stage of the illness, the amygdala “learns” to be hyper-reactive to any symptoms detected in the body. Once the amygdala become hyper-reactive, it overstimulates the sympathetic nervous system, the hypothalamus, the HPA axis, and the immune system, creating the cascade of symptoms experienced by people with ME/CFS.

Many of the methods Gupta employs are based on time-honored meditation techniques. These include halting circular thoughts, visualizing well-being, breathing exercises, and mindfulness meditation. During the ARP, these techniques are practiced for 30 minutes a day. The entire program takes six months.

Treatment rating for Amygdala Retraining Program