Beating Chronic Fatigue: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Complete Recovery

by Kristina Downing-Orr

Overview

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a common condition that can last for many years. It is a debilitating chronic illness which ruins lives. Every waking moment becomes a physical, emotional and cognitive struggle just to function on the most basic of levels.

The purpose of this book is to reassure sufferers and their families that recovery is possible and that the illness is genuine. It draws on the experiences of many sufferers of chronic fatigue and on those of the author herself. Dr Kristina Downing-Orr, a clinical psychologist, suffered severe chronic fatigue symptoms and was compelled to research the cause of CFS and the cure herself because she was offered so little help by the medical profession. Her recovery was quick and lasting.

In her book, Kristina reveals the causes of chronic fatigue and offers an accessible, scientifically valid, easy-to-achieve programme that will inspire people with CFS to regain their health and restore their energy and vitality. Chapters cover Kristina's own story, what chronic fatigue really is, what causes it, diagnosis, a step-by-step self-treatment programme, how to strengthen the body, and coping with stress and resources.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780749940935
Publisher:	Little, Brown Book Group
Publication date:	09/01/2013
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	240
Product dimensions:	4.90(w) x 7.70(h) x 0.70(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Kristina Downing-Orr is a clinical psychologist, research psychologist and former sufferer. She works at 76 Harley Street in London, is highly promotable and regularly in the media. She lives in Oxford.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements vii

Meet the Experts viii

Foreword xi

Section I Introducing CFS 1

Introduction 3

1 The Basics of CFS 13

2 Diagnosing CFS 20

3 Fibromyalgia and Depression: Close Cousins of CFS 38

4 Mainstream Theories about the Causes of CFS 46

5 Explaining the True Causes of CFS 54

Section II The Fusion Model Replenishing Body and Mind 79

6 The Medical Option 81

7 The Nutritional Option 101

8 Developing Psychological Hardiness 115

9 Formulating Empowering Beliefs 131

Section III Recovering From CFS: Managing Your Lifestyle 143

10 Coping with Stress 145

11 Getting Active, Getting Fit 154

12 Dealing with Setbacks 167

13 CFS and Your Relationships 173

A Final Word: Saying Goodbye to CFS 183

Appendices

Appendix A Depression Mimickers 185

Appendix B The Big Five Exercise - the Answers 191

Resources 193

References 203

Bibliography 209

Index 218

Editorial Reviews

U.K. psychotherapist Downing-Orr (Get the Life You Want; Wearing the Ruby Slippers) and a team of specialists offer two approaches to self-healing for readers battling chronic fatigue syndrome and those who suspect they might have it. The medical approach is centered on prescription medication and supplementation; the nutritional approach involves supporting biological systems (e.g., immune, circulatory, gastrointestinal) through a paleolithic diet (i.e., lean protein and vegetables) and vitamin, mineral, and herbal support. Downing-Orr's psychological method complements both approaches, which aim to reverse the complete physical breakdown and mental fog that Downing-Orr, a former CFS sufferer, says, characterize CFS. She explains complex contributing factors, differentiates CFS from similarly presenting conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, depression), provides stress-relieving strategies, and describes ways to gradually increase activity levels. Most helpful are Downing-Orr's insistence on validating CFS as a bona fide condition that has been ignored, belittled, and misdiagnosed, and advice on developing resilience, dealing with relapses, and defusing tense relationships that can result from chronic illness. (Oct.)

Publishers Weekly

"An essential read with heaps of valuable hints and insightful information."  —Women's Fitness

From the Publisher