Managing CFS/ME in Adolescence for GP/Family Medicine professionals

This session introduces the learner to the management of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) in young people. It examines the different interventions and strategies and when it is most appropriate to use these.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Recognise the principles of managing CFS/ME in young people
• Describe effective management techniques for treating CFS/ME in young people
• Identify how to apply different management strategies
• Identify what to include in a treatment package and when to refer for specialist help

Once a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) has been made, a comprehensive management plan should be devised with the young person and their family.

While management of CFS/ME has been controversial over past years, there is increasing consensus, and some evidence, that once treatable causes of symptoms have been excluded, management based on a rehabilitative model is helpful for most young people.