The CFS group is one of the core services available as part of the multi-disciplinary service and incorporates medical care, clinical psychology, physiotherapy and dietary advice.
Research has shown that groups such as this are effective in helping people with CFS manage and reduce their symptoms more effectively.
Aims of the Group
The group aims to help people learn and develop appropriate strategies for managing symptoms associated with CFS in order to facilitate recovery.
Topics covered include:
- Pacing and Graded Activity
- Helpful thinking style
- Relaxation & Stress Management
- Managing frustration/ low mood
- Communication skills
- Sleep Management
You also have the opportunity to learn from other people’s experience of managing CFS and gain support and encouragement from them.
When is the group held?
The group is run over six weeks on consecutive Fridays. Groups are held throughout the year.
Who runs the group?
The group is run by a team of clinical psychologists and physiotherapists who specialise in the management of CFS. There is also input from dieticians and medical consultants.
About the group
The group is run with a closed membership of about 8 members.
Using the principles of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and pacing, the group will help you to understand more about the factors which might be contributing to your illness and its effects in various areas of your life.
You will be introduced to strategies for managing your activity level appropriately. As you may be aware avoidance of activity or over-strenuous aerobic exercise can make your symptoms worse. Appropriate activity levels, problem solving, mood management and goal setting can help symptoms become more manageable.
As your ability to cope with symptoms improves, you will find that your physical fitness will improve and you are able to do more.
You will also learn strategies to manage and reduce symptoms and improve your physical, mental and emotional functioning.
We have a collaborative approach that has been found to be effective in helping individuals with CFS improve their functioning and cope better with symptoms.
What do I do if I want to participate in the group?
All interested participants will be sent an initial appointment. This meeting is an opportunity for you to meet the clinical psychologist or physiotherapist, in order to assess your situation and concerns. You will have the opportunity to talk about your situation and to ask questions. You will discuss ways of addressing your needs or solving your problems and whether the group is appropriate for you.