Support Groups and Counseling

Many support groups are available for people with chronic fatigue syndrome, but not everyone with CFS will find a support group useful. Groups can add more stress for some people rather than relieving it. When considering joining a support group, think about the following:

• A useful group involves both newcomers and people who have had CFS for a longer time.



• You should feel comfortable with the people in the group.



• Group leaders should make shy members feel welcome and prevent others from dominating discussions. Discussions should provide you with useful information.



• Established groups are often more useful because the history of the group may indicate that it is stable and meets the needs of its members.



• Groups that promise immediate cures and solutions are probably unrealistic.



• Some group discussions are merely complaint sessions and do not offer helpful information or constructive discussions.



• Avoid any group that encourages you to stop the multimodality therapy prescribed by your doctor.



• Groups should not require you to reveal personal or sensitive information.



• Groups should not charge high fees or require you to buy products.

For More Information

National Center for Infectious Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Mailstop A15
Atlanta, GA 30333

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892

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