Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a serious, complex, and often severely debilitating condition characterised by profound fatigue that is not relieved by rest and worsens significantly with physical or mental exertion — a phenomenon known as post-exertional malaise (PEM). Other hallmark symptoms include unrefreshing sleep, cognitive difficulties ("brain fog"), widespread pain, and orthostatic intolerance (symptoms worsening on standing). ME/CFS can range from mild to severely disabling, with some individuals unable to leave their bed. It is estimated to affect around 17 million people worldwide, yet remains poorly understood and historically under-researched.
People with ME/CFS frequently face disbelief, misdiagnosis, and significant losses — of career, social life, independence, and sense of self. The emotional burden of living with a condition that fluctuates unpredictably and is often invisible to others can be immense. Therapeutic support that centres the person's experience, respects the physical reality of the condition, and helps navigate grief, pacing, and identity can be a meaningful part of life with ME/CFS.
Institute of Medicine (2015). Beyond Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Redefining an illness. National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/19012
