Beating chronic fatigue Your step-by-step guide to complete recovery

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.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.