Chronic fatigue syndrome/Myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) can be a severe and disabling condition, with a high symptom burden and low level of functioning. Work disability is common and social life can be dramatically affected. CFS/ME is a challenging health problem as well as a social problem.

In recent years, a doubling of the number of patients diagnosed with CFS/ME in Norway has been reported. The patient group represents a challenge for the health care system, the municipality and the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV). According to recent figures, NAV pays NOK 100 million each month in permanent disability expenses for people with CFS/ME. The municipalities incur expenses in the form of care, rehabilitation and other measures.

There is a lack of effective treatment for CFS/ME, and there is a strong need for evidence-based knowledge. We will therefore conduct a randomized controlled trial to investigate the potential effect (positive and negative) of a 3-day course for 100 adults with CFS/ME. The course includes well-known components from evidence-based psychological treatments, but is presented in a concentrated form. We will investigate potential effects on symptoms, disability and quality of life, and conduct a long-term follow-up of work participation. Any negative events experienced during or after the course will be handled according to protocol, and if participation in the course shows promising effects, it may have positive consequences for both patients, relatives and health professionals, but also economically for society and municipalities.

The project is based at the Department of Psychology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), and is a collaborative project with researchers from the Department of Community Medicine and Nursing (NTNU); Department of Psychology and Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo (UiO), and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI).

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