Ethical Considerations of CBT and GET in Treating ME/CFS. A Comprehensive Review

Seminar paper from the year 2022 in the subject Ethics, grade: 1,7, University of Applied Sciences Coburg (Fakultät Soziale Arbeit und Gesundheit), course: Ethik der Gesundheitsförderung, language: English, abstract: Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) / Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating neurological condition marked by severe fatigue, immune dysfunction, and autonomic nervous system disorders. Despite the complexity and severity of ME/CFS, treatment options remain limited, with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Graded Exercise Therapy (GET) commonly prescribed. This review critically examines the ethical implications of standardizing CBT and GET as treatments for ME/CFS. Highlighting the diverse patient responses and potential harm, the review argues for a more individualized approach to therapy. It underscores the urgent need for extensive research into ME/CFS and advocates for comprehensive support from the healthcare system to better address this challenging condition.