Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) focuses on helping individuals manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex condition marked by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and often worsens after physical or mental exertion. This isn’t simply tiredness—it’s an overwhelming exhaustion that can affect both mental and physical health.
People with ME/CFS often experience additional symptoms such as headaches, joint and muscle pain, sore throats, dizziness, and unrefreshing sleep. Moreover, many individuals also face depression and anxiety, which can further limit daily functioning. While the exact cause remains unclear, ME/CFS may develop after infections, cancer treatments, or physical trauma. Consequently, a tailored treatment plan is essential.
If these symptoms sound familiar, it might be time to explore psychological treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome to regain stability and balance in daily life.
Ongoing tiredness that doesn't improve with rest
Worsening of symptoms after physical or mental effort
Even after a full night's rest, sleep feels non-restorative
Trouble concentrating, remembering, or thinking clearly
Aching or soreness without obvious injury
Feeling faint or weak, especially when standing up
The average onset of ME/CFS is between 30–50, but it can also affect children and adolescents
Around 0.4–1% of Australians (up to 250,000 people) may have ME/CFS, though many go undiagnosed
Women are about three times more likely than men to develop ME/CFS
Up to 90% of Australians with ME/CFS are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed
There is currently no cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). Instead, treatment focuses on managing symptoms, improving day-to-day functioning, and enhancing quality of life. A personalised treatment plan may include activity pacing, sleep management, psychological support, and medical care tailored to your individual needs.
Activity pacing is one of the most important strategies for managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Many people experience a “boom and bust” cycle, where doing too much on a good day can lead to a significant worsening of symptoms afterwards.
A psychologist can help you identify your personal energy limits, prioritise daily activities, plan regular rest breaks, and develop practical pacing strategies to reduce post-exertional malaise and support more consistent day-to-day functioning.
Graded Exercise Therapy (GET), which involves fixed increases in physical activity, is no longer recommended for people with ME/CFS, as it may worsen symptoms, including post-exertional malaise.
Sleep disturbances are common in people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and can contribute to fatigue and reduced wellbeing.
A psychologist can help you establish healthy sleep habits, develop a consistent sleep routine, manage stress or worry that interferes with sleep, and learn relaxation strategies that support better quality rest.
Many people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome experience difficulties with concentration, memory and mental clarity, often referred to as “brain fog”.
Psychologists can help you develop practical strategies such as breaking tasks into manageable steps, using reminders or planners, scheduling demanding tasks during periods of higher energy, and pacing cognitive activities throughout the day.
Although Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a physical health condition, living with ongoing symptoms can take a significant emotional and psychological toll. Research suggests that Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) may help reduce fatigue-related impairment and improve symptoms of anxiety and depression for some people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome when used as part of a broader management plan.
CBT can help you:
develop practical coping strategies
manage stress, anxiety and depression
adjust to changes in daily life
improve sleep habits
set realistic goals while respecting your energy limits
While CBT does not treat the underlying cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, it can help improve wellbeing, confidence and quality of life by supporting people to better manage the challenges of living with a long-term condition.
*Source: Bermpohl FM, et al. (2024). Efficacy and Acceptance of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Adult Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Try the “spoon theory” approach—spread out your activities and allow rest in between
Aim for a calming bedtime routine—dim lights, reduce screens, and wind down with something relaxing
If possible, try light stretching, yoga, or short walks—always at a pace your body can manage
Jotting things down or using reminders can help with concentration and memory (“brain fog”)
Call us on 02 9438 2511, email hello@mindboxpsychology.com.au or send us an enquiry. Our reception team will answer your questions.
We’ll match you with a clinical psychologist who works with your concern, face-to-face in St Leonards or through online counselling anywhere in Australia.
Your first session is 60 minutes. You don’t need a referral to book, but with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists are highly qualified, with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Pacing Strategies, and Mindfulness, to support individuals with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, helping them manage energy levels, reduce stress, and improve daily functioning.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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