A growing body of research has challenged the long-held notion that myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and long Covid are solely psychological conditions. Studies have consistently shown that these diseases involve a physical component, rather than simply dysfunctional beliefs.
The cognitive behavioral model (CBmodel) has dominated the field of ME/CFS since the 1990s, but recent trials, including the PACE trial and ReCOVer study, have found that patients with ME/CFS and long Covid do not improve when treated with graded exercise therapy (GET) or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). In fact, fitness levels did not increase in these groups.
In contrast, studies have shown that patients with ME/CFS and long Covid exhibit significant physical symptoms, such as muscle weakness, joint pain, and fatigue. These symptoms are often comparable to those experienced by individuals with chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia or arthritis.
Despite the mounting evidence, many researchers continue to promote the CBmodel, which suggests that ME/CFS and long Covid are primarily psychological conditions. This resistance may be due to a bias towards the existing model, rather than a lack of awareness about the physical symptoms involved.
The discovery that ME/CFS and long Covid are physical diseases has significant implications for diagnosis, treatment, and research. It highlights the need for interdisciplinary approaches, combining mental health expertise with exercise physiology and other medical specialties.
Ultimately, acknowledging the physical nature of ME/CFS and long Covid is crucial for providing effective care to patients and advancing our understanding of these complex conditions.
Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2025.1495050/abstract