Background
There is limited evidence for effective treatments for paediatric Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME). In the UK, standard treatments include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for fatigue (CBT-F) and behavioural approaches like Graded Exercise Therapy (GET) and Activity Management (AM). However, these treatments are not always successful, and about one-third of children do not recover after six months.
Many families seek alternative treatments, such as the Lightning Process (LP), which has shown promise in improving outcomes when used alongside Specialist Medical Care (SMC). Research, including the SMILE trial, found that Lightning Process, combined with SMC, helped improve physical function, reduce fatigue, anxiety and depression, and increase school attendance.
Objective
The study aimed to compare the Lightning Process with standard treatments (CBT-F, GET, AM) to understand what makes each approach unique and how they can improve treatment options for children with CFS/ME. It also sought to help clinicians understand the range of treatments available for families.
Conclusion
While Lightning Process shares some similarities with standard treatments, it has distinct features, such as its focus on language, mental exercises, and the neurological effects of stress. Understanding these differences can guide future research and improve treatment options for paediatric CFS/ME.
Anderson EC, Loades M, Starbuck J, et al. CBT repackaged or a novel treatment? The Lightning Process compared with UK specialist medical care for paediatric Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Fatigue Biomed Health Behav. Published online July 5, 2021:1-20. doi:10.1080/21641846.2021.1935373
