http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/03069885.2014.987725#.VRL7h46sWH8
British Journal of Guidance & Counselling
From chaos and insecurity to understanding and coping: experienced benefits of a group-based education programme for people with chronic fatigue syndrome
Irma Pinxsterhuisab*, Elin Bolle Stranda, Eva Stormorkenc & Unni Sveende
Publishing models and article dates explained
Received: 30 Jun 2014
Accepted: 30 Oct 2014
Published online: 11 Dec 2014
Abstract
The aim of this study was to elicit participants' experiences with a multidisciplinary patient education programme and their views regarding the usefulness of the programme.
Focus group interviews were conducted with 10 participants immediately and nine months following participation in the programme and analysed using thematic analysis.
Initially, the participants experienced confusion and insecurity regarding coping with the illness.
Participation in the programme appeared to promote understanding, acceptance and coping through gaining greater knowledge, learning coping strategies and exchanging experiences, as well as receiving understanding and acceptance.
Thus, the programme was experienced to be a beneficial intervention.
However, the participants expressed a need for more guidance or follow-up to maintain the practice of coping strategies for better coping with their illness.
Keywords
chronic fatigue syndrome,
patient education,
positive emotions,
coping,
qualitative research