Abstract

Background
Acceptance is understood to be an important element in coping with chronic
illnesses, linked to positive outcomes such as reduced symptoms and greater quality
of life. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a disabling syndrome that is associated
with a poor reported quality of life even in comparison to other chronic conditions.
Given that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a psychotherapeutic
model aimed at increasing psychological flexibility, with an emphasis on experiential
acceptance and the pursuit of values, this approach holds potential for living and
coping with CFS.
Methods
This study used a mixed method multiple single case design to explore the effects of
a six week self-help ACT intervention with six participants with CFS.
Results
Significant increases in ‘engaged response style’ was replicated in four out of six
participants and maintained at follow up, with the qualitative data adding further
validity to the importance of the values component of the intervention. Low initial
acceptance scores improved in four participants but were not maintained. Overall
measures of psychological flexibility indicated improvements maintained at follow up
for three participants. All participants wearing the activity monitor showed increased
physical activity post-intervention, three of which maintained this at follow up. Five
participants reported less symptoms and disability, which was maintained for three
participants. The implicit measure indicated that underlying beliefs remained stable.
Conclusion
This study was largely exploratory but it seems that this intervention might be of
benefit to some individuals with CFS, particularly in the promotion and pursuit of
individual values. This study adds support to the role of acceptance in CFS however
in this format at least it seems that any benefits from the intervention are difficult to
maintain. Although improvements in overall psychological flexibility were replicated in
DCP