7.2 Conclusion summary
The experiences of men with CFS/ME were acknowledged as under-reported in the academic literature and were therefore, specifically explored in this study. New understandings of the meaning of living with CFS/ME were identified. These included difficulties with living with an illness of unknown origin and uncertain prognosis which impacted upon how the men were treated by health practitioners and others. The contentious nature of CFS/ME negatively influenced their ‘being-in-the-world’ as illness experiences were trivialised, disrupting their occupations and their sense of self. The importance of health professionals entering into a genuine dialogue with the men is advocated to demonstrate an acceptance of their illness. Through shared dialogue and rapport development, access to beliefs, values, fears and expectations of living with and beyond CFS/ME, considered as ‘chaotic-being’, can be understood. Through attending to their ‘being’ as a priority, then their ‘doing’, subjective notions of ‘belonging’, ‘becoming’, ‘survival’ and ‘health’ may also be understood. By understanding these issues occupational therapists may assist with restoration and discovery of new and meaningful ‘doing’ or occupations. This may be achieved by assisting the men with adapting their occupations and the use of pacing strategies. As a consequence, a move from ‘chaotic-being’ or illness, towards ‘harmonious-being’ or health may then be achieved for men with CFS/ME.
