ME Association Free Literature
A range of literature that you can depend upon. Written by Dr Charles Shepherd, other advisers, and topic experts…
What we offer
- Reliable information on a full range of topics, including: Long Covid, ME/CFS comorbidities, benefits, diagnosis, symptoms, management, diet and vitamins; for people affected by, or with an interest in, ME/CFS and Long Covid.
- Literature written by specialist advisers and topic experts.
- Available to view and download for free!
Membership, Books, Goods and Clothing can be purchased via the website shop.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
We recommend that the medical information is discussed with your doctor. It is not intended to be a substitute for personalised medical advice or treatment. You should consult your doctor whenever a new symptom arises, or an existing symptom worsens. It is important to obtain medical advice that considers other causes and possible treatments. Do not assume that new or worsened symptoms are solely because of ME/CFS or Long Covid.
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Awareness (24)
A-Z Poster of ME/CFS
Following a series of successful social media posts, we have developed an A to Z poster showing the alphabet of common symptoms, experiences, and comorbidities of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).
Causation – What do we know about the causes of ME/CFS?
Despite being subject to uncertainty and continuing medical debate, we review the evidence for causation and consider the physical abnormalities that reinforce the view that there is an underlying disease process in ME/CFS.
CPD Training with MIMS Learning
This poster explains the CPD training course from MIMS Learning that has been designed to help healthcare professionals learn more about the 2021 NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
CPD Training with StudyPRN
This poster explains the CPD training course from StudyPRN that has been designed to help healthcare professionals learn more about symptoms, diagnosis, and ongoing care for people with ME/CFS.
Diagnosing ME/CFS
We explain why an early and accurate diagnosis is so important and review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. We examine core symptoms, clinical investigations and blood tests, and other explanations for persistent symptoms.
Explaining ME/CFS to Other People
We consider just how much of an added burden it can be when others in your life do not understand ME/CFS, and we examine ways in which communication can be improved.
Fatigue – The Nature of Fatigue
A key symptom of ME/CFS and Long Covid, we explain what is meant by debilitating fatigue and how it differs from the ‘chronic fatigue' that occurs in a wide range of other medical and psychiatric illnesses. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Fundraising Pack
This booklet summarises the ways in which you can support the ME Association and help us continue our vital work to help more people with ME/CFS and Long Covid. Use it to inspire your own fundraising activities!
Leaving a Legacy
It is never too early to write a will, and including a legacy to the ME Association means that we can continue with our work, helping others, and investing in biomedical research to pursue effective treatments and a cure.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
MEA Illness Management Report (2015)
Details the ME Association position on the controversial graded exercise and cognitive behavioural therapies and explains why we support the activity management approach known simply as Pacing.
Membership – Excellent Reasons to Join!
A leaflet that provides some excellent reasons to become a member of the ME Association. Please also refer to the Membership page of the website. We look forward to welcoming you to the community!
Neurological – Is ME/CFS a Neurological Disease?
This leaflet summarises all the key clinical, research and political evidence supporting a neurological classification for myalgic encephalopathy/encephalomyelitis (ME).
NICE Guideline on ME/CFS: An ME Association Summary
This booklet is recommended reading. It lets you know what to expect from the NHS and social care services with regard to symptom recognition, diagnosis, management, referral, and ongoing care and support.
Personal Relationships & Intimacy
Intimate relations can be important, but among those with ME/CFS or Long Covid they can be a challenge. We explore the issues and provide real-life experiences, which might help you to discuss the topic with your partner. Warning: Adult Content.
Poster Pack: ME/CFS & Long Covid
A selection of 5 posters that can help raise awareness of ME/CFS and Long Covid. If you want to share them virtually or print them yourself, you can select the free PDF download option below.
Poster: ME/CFS Guide for Primary Care Professionals
A comprehensive infographic with expert information from Dr Charles Shepherd (Honorary Medical Adviser to the ME Association) to help primary healthcare professionals with diagnosing ME/CFS.
Poster: ME/CFS Overall Management for Healthcare Professionals
A comprehensive infographic with expert information from Dr Charles Shepherd (Honorary Medical Adviser to the ME Association) to help healthcare professionals with the management of ME/CFS.
Prevalence of ME/CFS in the UK
Updates on the prevalence statistics for ME/CFS in the UK, including latest research and Long Covid.
Written by Russell Fleming, Head of Project Development at The ME Association.
Recognise ME – Leaflet 1
A PDF copy of one of the two leaflets that were displayed in around 3,000 GP surgeries around the UK, as part of the ME Association's Recognise ME campaign.
Recognise ME – Leaflet 2
A PDF copy of one of the two leaflets that were displayed in around 3,000 GP surgeries around the UK, as part of the ME Association's Recognise ME campaign.
Recognise ME – Poster
A PDF copy of the poster that was displayed in 3,000 GP surgeries around the UK, as part of the ME Association's Recognise ME campaign.
Rethinking ME – A Report by the APPG
This is the official report from the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on ME that contains key recommendations aimed at increasing research investment and discovery, improving health and social care, and enhancing the lives of people with ME/CFS. It was launched at an official reception with the Rt. Hon. Sajid Javid in May 2022.
What you need to know about ME/CFS
Written by Dr Katrina Pears, Research Coordinator for The ME Association, this booklet contains evidence-based knowledge and expert medical opinion. It includes ME/CFS background, the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS, research evidence on disease pathology, advancing ME/CFS research and how you can help.
Benefits (9)
Disability Rating Scale
We have produced a Disability Rating Scale that expands on the illness severity definitions recommended in the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It is more detailed and relevant, can be used to explain your current situation to others, in medical or benefit discussions, and as an aid to monitoring progress.
DWP Claiming Benefits – Top Tips
If you’re faced with the daunting task of completing an application for Employment and Support Allowance, Personal Independence Payment or Universal Credit – pause a while and read these top tips!
DWP Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – A Guide to Applications
This guide contains examples that are relevant to people with ME/CFS (and Long Covid) and will help you or your representative make a good application for this often essential and non-means-tested disability benefit.
DWP Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – A Guide to Reconsiderations & Appeals
This guide takes you through a mandatory reconsideration of the decision made about your benefit application. It also explains how you can make a formal appeal to challenge the DWPs decision.
DWP Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Terminology Guide
This free leaflet helps explain the often confusing terms used by the Department of Work and Pensions when making an application for PIP. The content is available in the main booklet: PIP – A Guide to Applications.
DWP Personal Independence Payment (PIP): ME/CFS Training and guidance for PIP assessors
Obtained through a Freedom of Information request, this is the new training and information document on ME/CFS that has been prepared for people who are involved in assessing claims for PIP.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
Template: Blue Badge Applications
This letter provides background information on the classification, severity and prognosis/permanency of ME/CFS in relation to a Blue Badge disabled parking application.
Carers and social care (19)
Blue Badge Scheme – An Introduction
In this leaflet, we provide an overview of the blue badge parking scheme and explain how you can make an application. Also included is a letter you can use to support an application.
Care and Support Plans
We examine the potential difficulties establishing ongoing care from the NHS. We feature a real-life example, include the recommendations for care and support plans and regular reviews in primary care taken from the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Caring for a Person with ME/CFS
This comprehensive booklet considers the well-being of carers, what might be involved as part of caring for someone with ME/CFS, and the kind of help that might be necessary, plus the booklet includes personal stories.
Disability Aids, Adaptations, and Social Care
We consider disability aids and home adaptations, recommendations from the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS, NHS and social care provision, the disabled facilities grant – and helpful tips to help you achieve more independence.
Disability Rating Scale
We have produced a Disability Rating Scale that expands on the illness severity definitions recommended in the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It is more detailed and relevant, can be used to explain your current situation to others, in medical or benefit discussions, and as an aid to monitoring progress.
Doctors: How to Establish a Good Relationship
We explain what to expect from your doctor and how you can work to ensure a supportive relationship. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS whose recommendations are now being applied to health and social care services.
DWP Claiming Benefits – Top Tips
If you’re faced with the daunting task of completing an application for Employment and Support Allowance, Personal Independence Payment or Universal Credit – pause a while and read these top tips!
DWP Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – A Guide to Applications
This guide contains examples that are relevant to people with ME/CFS (and Long Covid) and will help you or your representative make a good application for this often essential and non-means-tested disability benefit.
DWP Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – A Guide to Reconsiderations & Appeals
This guide takes you through a mandatory reconsideration of the decision made about your benefit application. It also explains how you can make a formal appeal to challenge the DWPs decision.
DWP Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Terminology Guide
This free leaflet helps explain the often confusing terms used by the Department of Work and Pensions when making an application for PIP. The content is available in the main booklet: PIP – A Guide to Applications.
DWP Personal Independence Payment (PIP): ME/CFS Training and guidance for PIP assessors
Obtained through a Freedom of Information request, this is the new training and information document on ME/CFS that has been prepared for people who are involved in assessing claims for PIP.
Health Care Responsibility and Compassion – Visiting the Housebound Patient Severely Affected by ME/CFS
This is a very useful paper on how to visit and carry out home care for people with very severe ME/CFS. It contains some excellent and compassionate information and guidance for community health professionals from (nurse) Caroline Kingdon and colleagues at the ME Biobank.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
Occupational Health Demystified
A comprehensive booklet (written by Dr Helen L Kröning, MA (Cantab) MSc MBChB with European Studies MRCS DOccMed) containing information to help guide interactions and avoid potential pitfalls if you seek Occupational Health input.
Rethinking ME – A Report by the APPG
This is the official report from the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on ME that contains key recommendations aimed at increasing research investment and discovery, improving health and social care, and enhancing the lives of people with ME/CFS. It was launched at an official reception with the Rt. Hon. Sajid Javid in May 2022.
Severe ME/CFS: Helping You Cope
In this leaflet, we talk about severe ME/CFS – the symptoms, some thoughts about management, how you can explain your illness to family and carers – together with the kind of help that may be available. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Template: Blue Badge Applications
This letter provides background information on the classification, severity and prognosis/permanency of ME/CFS in relation to a Blue Badge disabled parking application.
Template: Disability Aids, Adaptations & Social Care
This letter provides supporting evidence for the provision of disability aids such as wheelchairs, home adaptations and appliances for people with ME/CFS. It can also be used to help obtain aid from social care services.
Children and Young People (4)
Children and Adolescents
This 6-page chapter has been taken from the 2022 Clinical & Research Guide and we review what is known about ME/CFS in young people and consider the research evidence.
Diagnosis and Management in Young People: a Primer
This booklet was compiled by international experts including Dr Nigel Speight, Hon. Paediatric Adviser to the ME Association. It provides the information necessary to understand, diagnose and manage the symptoms of ME in children and young people.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
Covid-19, Long Covid and ME/CFS (6)
Covid-19: Long Covid & ME/CFS
This 2021 booklet reviewed the overlaps between Long Covid and ME/CFS, and explained how people with Long Covid can safely learn to manage their symptoms and any continuing disability.
Covid-19: Long Covid and ME/CFS – Are they the same condition?
This is a review of the key clinical and causative overlaps that occur between the two diagnoses. It explains how existing knowledge about the management of key symptoms in ME/CFS can be applied to help people with Long Covid until such time as effective treatments are available.
Covid-19: Reducing Risk of Infection
Written during the Covid pandemic, but with much information that is still relevant today.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
Prevalence of ME/CFS in the UK
Updates on the prevalence statistics for ME/CFS in the UK, including latest research and Long Covid.
Written by Russell Fleming, Head of Project Development at The ME Association.
What you need to know about ME/CFS
Written by Dr Katrina Pears, Research Coordinator for The ME Association, this booklet contains evidence-based knowledge and expert medical opinion. It includes ME/CFS background, the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS, research evidence on disease pathology, advancing ME/CFS research and how you can help.
Diagnosis (23)
Bateman and Horne: American College of Sports Medicine’s CPET Guidelines
This is a useful summary from the Bateman Horne Centre in America on the pros and cons of using a two day cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) in the assessment and diagnosis of people with ME/CFS.
Blood & Organ Donation in ME/CFS
We explain why people with ME/CFS cannot donate blood but how they can still donate organs after death. We also consider the importance of blood and organ donation in general.
Blood Tests Explained
In this leaflet, we take an in-depth look at what blood tests should be taken to ensure your diagnosis is correct. Testing your blood is essential to rule out other illnesses that can cause similar symptoms.
Diagnosing ME/CFS
We explain why an early and accurate diagnosis is so important and review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. We examine core symptoms, clinical investigations and blood tests, and other explanations for persistent symptoms.
Disability Classification & Illness Severity Definitions
We examine illness severity, explain how ME/CFS is officially recognised as a neurological disease and disability, and provide a useful disability rating scale that can help you explain your disability to others.
Disability Rating Scale
We have produced a Disability Rating Scale that expands on the illness severity definitions recommended in the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It is more detailed and relevant, can be used to explain your current situation to others, in medical or benefit discussions, and as an aid to monitoring progress.
Doctors: How to Establish a Good Relationship
We explain what to expect from your doctor and how you can work to ensure a supportive relationship. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS whose recommendations are now being applied to health and social care services.
Fibromyalgia & ME/CFS
We consider the similarities and differences between Fibromyalgia and ME/CFS. Healthcare professionals can still be confused by the two conditions and we hope this information will make the distinctions clear.
Forward-ME Position Statement: Spinal Surgery and ME/CFS
Forward-ME was aware that in 2020 major surgery to address possible spinal pathologies in patients with ME/CFS became a topic of interest for some people in the patient community. In a statement dated 30th September 2020, they provide their position on this subject which is fully supported by the ME Association.
Hospital Support Pack
This pack was designed to help you explain the care you need when going into hospital and features references to the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It was jointly produced by the 25% Group, AfME, BRAME, and the ME Association in May 2024.
Interstitial Cystitis and ME/CFS
Interstitial cystitis is a poorly understood bladder condition that causes uncomfortable symptoms and seems to be more common in people with ME/CFS.
Just Diagnosed? We're Here to Help!
Written for people recently diagnosed with ME/CFS, we aim to provide answers to some of the questions you might have about the condition, tips for management, and where you can find medical help. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Lyme Disease: The Facts
In this leaflet we review the facts about Lyme disease. It is a serious infection that is spread to humans by tick bites. Chronic Lyme disease, while controversial, also displays similar symptoms to ME/CFS.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
ME/CFS/PVFS – Your Questions Answered
We explain some of the terminology you are likely to encounter and help address the more commonly asked questions about Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS) and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome.
Membership – Excellent Reasons to Join!
A leaflet that provides some excellent reasons to become a member of the ME Association. Please also refer to the Membership page of the website. We look forward to welcoming you to the community!
Menopause – Overview and Research in ME/CFS
We consider all aspects of menopause including diagnosis, symptoms, and treatments, and discuss the effect it can have on women with ME/CFS.
We also look at female hormone research in ME/CFS.
Neurological – Is ME/CFS a Neurological Disease?
This leaflet summarises all the key clinical, research and political evidence supporting a neurological classification for myalgic encephalopathy/encephalomyelitis (ME).
Poster: ME/CFS Guide for Primary Care Professionals
A comprehensive infographic with expert information from Dr Charles Shepherd (Honorary Medical Adviser to the ME Association) to help primary healthcare professionals with diagnosing ME/CFS.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
PMS is a collection of symptoms that appear every month around the time of a woman's period. We review what is currently known about PMS, how it can overlap with ME/CFS symptoms, and the various treatment options that are available.
Prognosis, Permanency & Quality of Life in ME/CFS
This booklet covers information on what people may expect following a diagnosis of ME/CFS in terms of disability, improvement, recovery, and quality of life.
Thyroid Disease and ME/CFS
We examine thyroid disease, review the symptoms and overlap with ME/CFS, the testing that can be done, and the treatments that are available.
What you need to know about ME/CFS
Written by Dr Katrina Pears, Research Coordinator for The ME Association, this booklet contains evidence-based knowledge and expert medical opinion. It includes ME/CFS background, the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS, research evidence on disease pathology, advancing ME/CFS research and how you can help.
Diet and Nutrition (5)
Alternative and Complementary Approaches
Due to a lack of any effective treatment in ME/CFS, it’s not surprising to find that many people turn to the alternative and complementary (ACM) health sectors for help with their symptoms. This comprehensive booklet covers a wide range of therapies and highlights treatments where there is good quality evidence to demonstrate that they are both safe and effective.
Diet and Nutrition
We examine the role of diet, how it can help to improve health when suffering from ME/CFS and Long Covid and ways we could improve what we eat and how we eat it. We consider malnutrition and how essential nutrition should be provided when severely or very severely affected. And, we share diet trends and tips and answer commonly asked questions from the patient community.
Food Fact Sheet: Long Covid and Diet
This leaflet is written by the Association of UK Dieticians (BDA.uk.com) and the ME Association's Hon. Dietetics Adviser, Sue Luscombe. It covers advice on foods that can be helpful for those with Long Covid.
Membership – Excellent Reasons to Join!
A leaflet that provides some excellent reasons to become a member of the ME Association. Please also refer to the Membership page of the website. We look forward to welcoming you to the community!
Education and Employment (8)
Employment Issues
An essential guide that features employment law, returning or continuing to work as a disabled person, reasonable adjustments, sickness absence, leaving work due to ill health, national insurance, benefits, ill-health early retirement and pensions, reasonable adjustments, termination of employment and unfair dismissal.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
Membership – Excellent Reasons to Join!
A leaflet that provides some excellent reasons to become a member of the ME Association. Please also refer to the Membership page of the website. We look forward to welcoming you to the community!
Occupational Health Demystified
A comprehensive booklet (written by Dr Helen L Kröning, MA (Cantab) MSc MBChB with European Studies MRCS DOccMed) containing information to help guide interactions and avoid potential pitfalls if you seek Occupational Health input.
Pensions – Obtaining an Ill-Health Pension
We consider the key points in applying for early retirement on the grounds of ill-health and examine prognosis and permanency in ME/CFS.
Template: Examinations & ME/CFS
This letter summarises the special arrangements that may need to be used so that students with ME/CFS can make the best use of their potential when taking examinations.
University & How to Survive by Emily Bailey
This comprehensive guide to surviving at university with ME/CFS is based on Emily's own experiences.
University & ME by Pippa Stacey
This leaflet explains how someone with ME/CFS can make a successful start to their time at university. Pippa has also written a book on the subject.
Emotional Health (10)
Anxiety & Panic Attacks – Your Questions Answered
We explain what causes anxiety and panic attacks, why you might get anxious, what you can do to help yourself, and when to seek help from a medical professional.
Counselling – Your Questions Answered
We explain counselling and how therapy can help should an independent professional be needed to work through the understandable emotional problems that can affect people with ME/CFS and Long Covid and those who care for them.
Depression – Antidepressants & Other Treatment Options
We explain why suffering from depression is completely understandable when living with ME/CFS and consider the treatment options that are available.
Emotions – Managing Emotions in ME/CFS
In this booklet, we explore some of the emotions that people with ME/CFS may experience and consider general coping strategies to help manage mental health.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
Membership – Excellent Reasons to Join!
A leaflet that provides some excellent reasons to become a member of the ME Association. Please also refer to the Membership page of the website. We look forward to welcoming you to the community!
Menopause – Overview and Research in ME/CFS
We consider all aspects of menopause including diagnosis, symptoms, and treatments, and discuss the effect it can have on women with ME/CFS.
We also look at female hormone research in ME/CFS.
Personal Relationships & Intimacy
Intimate relations can be important, but among those with ME/CFS or Long Covid they can be a challenge. We explore the issues and provide real-life experiences, which might help you to discuss the topic with your partner. Warning: Adult Content.
Prognosis, Permanency & Quality of Life in ME/CFS
This booklet covers information on what people may expect following a diagnosis of ME/CFS in terms of disability, improvement, recovery, and quality of life.
Management (54)
A-Z of Symptom Management
In this leaflet, we summarise how medications, self-help strategies, and therapies can be used to manage some of the most common symptoms in ME/CFS.
Alternative and Complementary Approaches
Due to a lack of any effective treatment in ME/CFS, it’s not surprising to find that many people turn to the alternative and complementary (ACM) health sectors for help with their symptoms. This comprehensive booklet covers a wide range of therapies and highlights treatments where there is good quality evidence to demonstrate that they are both safe and effective.
Anaesthesia and ME/CFS
Jointly produced by the Royal College of Anaesthetists, ME Association and PwME, this leaflet aims to provide people who need surgery and an anaesthetic or sedation with information about what they might expect.
Anxiety & Panic Attacks – Your Questions Answered
We explain what causes anxiety and panic attacks, why you might get anxious, what you can do to help yourself, and when to seek help from a medical professional.
Autonomic Dysfunction
Profs. Sivan and Newton, and Dr McKeever, explain how to recognise and manage autonomic dysfunction (OI and PoTS etc.) in ME/CFS and Long Covid (Nov. 2023).
Blood & Organ Donation in ME/CFS
We explain why people with ME/CFS cannot donate blood but how they can still donate organs after death. We also consider the importance of blood and organ donation in general.
Cancer, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy and ME/CFS
When diagnosed with cancer it can help to know how the various treatments are going to affect you and your ME/CFS.
Care and Support Plans
We examine the potential difficulties establishing ongoing care from the NHS. We feature a real-life example, include the recommendations for care and support plans and regular reviews in primary care taken from the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Cognitive Dysfunction – Brain Fog
A key symptom of ME/CFS and Long Covid, it can be very frustrating, affecting memory and recall, word-finding, comprehension, reading, writing, concentration and other mental activities. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Counselling – Your Questions Answered
We explain counselling and how therapy can help should an independent professional be needed to work through the understandable emotional problems that can affect people with ME/CFS and Long Covid and those who care for them.
Dental Care – Your Questions Answered
We help address common questions about maintaining dental hygiene while ill with ME/CFS. We also consider how to best manage mouth ulcers, anaesthetic sensitivity, and the role of antibiotics in dental practice.
Depression – Antidepressants & Other Treatment Options
We explain why suffering from depression is completely understandable when living with ME/CFS and consider the treatment options that are available.
Diet and Nutrition
We examine the role of diet, how it can help to improve health when suffering from ME/CFS and Long Covid and ways we could improve what we eat and how we eat it. We consider malnutrition and how essential nutrition should be provided when severely or very severely affected. And, we share diet trends and tips and answer commonly asked questions from the patient community.
Disability Rating Scale
We have produced a Disability Rating Scale that expands on the illness severity definitions recommended in the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It is more detailed and relevant, can be used to explain your current situation to others, in medical or benefit discussions, and as an aid to monitoring progress.
Doctors: How to Establish a Good Relationship
We explain what to expect from your doctor and how you can work to ensure a supportive relationship. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS whose recommendations are now being applied to health and social care services.
Emotions – Managing Emotions in ME/CFS
In this booklet, we explore some of the emotions that people with ME/CFS may experience and consider general coping strategies to help manage mental health.
Fatigue – The Nature of Fatigue
A key symptom of ME/CFS and Long Covid, we explain what is meant by debilitating fatigue and how it differs from the ‘chronic fatigue' that occurs in a wide range of other medical and psychiatric illnesses. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Flu Vaccination and ME/CFS (2025-2026)
This leaflet is to supply you with everything you need to know about flu vaccines and ME/CFS. This information may help you to make an informed decision after speaking with your doctor, as to whether you ought to have this protection.
Health Care Responsibility and Compassion – Visiting the Housebound Patient Severely Affected by ME/CFS
This is a very useful paper on how to visit and carry out home care for people with very severe ME/CFS. It contains some excellent and compassionate information and guidance for community health professionals from (nurse) Caroline Kingdon and colleagues at the ME Biobank.
Hospital Support Pack
This pack was designed to help you explain the care you need when going into hospital and features references to the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It was jointly produced by the 25% Group, AfME, BRAME, and the ME Association in May 2024.
Interstitial Cystitis and ME/CFS
Interstitial cystitis is a poorly understood bladder condition that causes uncomfortable symptoms and seems to be more common in people with ME/CFS.
Management – Ten Key Aspects
This booklet brings together the 10 most important aspects to managing your ME/CFS and is consistent with the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Management – What gets in the way of good management?
Good management can be the key that helps people with ME/CFS improve their quality of life. We provide an in-depth review of the 3 most common barriers and how they can be overcome.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
MEA Book List
In this booklet, we've selected some self-help books, clinical guides, official reports, novels, and videos that may interest people with ME/CFS and those who care for them.
MEA Illness Management Report (2015)
Details the ME Association position on the controversial graded exercise and cognitive behavioural therapies and explains why we support the activity management approach known simply as Pacing.
Medication – Amitriptyline: Depression, Pain & Sleep Relief
In this booklet, we explain how Amitriptyline was developed as an antidepressant, but is now used more commonly to help with pain and sleep problems that occur in ME/CFS.
Medication – Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Depression & Pain Relief
We discuss anxiety, depression and pain in ME/CFS, and how they can be managed. We feature the drug duloxetine and review the evidence for its use as a symptom-relieving medication.
Medication – Gabapentin (Neurontin): Moderate to Severe Pain Relief
We talk about pain in ME/CFS and how it can be managed. We feature Gabapentin, review the evidence for its use as a pain relief medication, and its legal status as a Class C controlled Drug.
Medication – Lyrica (Pregabalin): Moderate to Severe Pain Relief
We talk about pain in ME/CFS and how it can be managed. We feature Lyrica, review the evidence for its use as a pain relief medication, and its legal status as a Class C controlled Drug.
Membership – Excellent Reasons to Join!
A leaflet that provides some excellent reasons to become a member of the ME Association. Please also refer to the Membership page of the website. We look forward to welcoming you to the community!
Menopause – Overview and Research in ME/CFS
We consider all aspects of menopause including diagnosis, symptoms, and treatments, and discuss the effect it can have on women with ME/CFS.
We also look at female hormone research in ME/CFS.
Muscle Energy Supplements
We consider exertion-induced muscle fatigue and examine the effectiveness of the supplements that are sold as being able to increase muscle energy. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
NICE Guideline on ME/CFS: An ME Association Summary
This booklet is recommended reading. It lets you know what to expect from the NHS and social care services with regard to symptom recognition, diagnosis, management, referral, and ongoing care and support.
Occupational Health Demystified
A comprehensive booklet (written by Dr Helen L Kröning, MA (Cantab) MSc MBChB with European Studies MRCS DOccMed) containing information to help guide interactions and avoid potential pitfalls if you seek Occupational Health input.
Pacing: Activity and Energy Management
We explain how you can safely manage functional incapacity by using a management approach known as Pacing. It will help you learn how to live with ME/CFS and Long Covid without triggering an exacerbation of symptoms. It is consistent with the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Personal Relationships & Intimacy
Intimate relations can be important, but among those with ME/CFS or Long Covid they can be a challenge. We explore the issues and provide real-life experiences, which might help you to discuss the topic with your partner. Warning: Adult Content.
Poster: ME/CFS Guide for Primary Care Professionals
A comprehensive infographic with expert information from Dr Charles Shepherd (Honorary Medical Adviser to the ME Association) to help primary healthcare professionals with diagnosing ME/CFS.
Poster: ME/CFS Overall Management for Healthcare Professionals
A comprehensive infographic with expert information from Dr Charles Shepherd (Honorary Medical Adviser to the ME Association) to help healthcare professionals with the management of ME/CFS.
Pregnancy & Childbirth
Deciding whether to have a child is something that requires a great deal of careful planning if you have ME/CFS and we hope this leaflet will help you reach an informed decision.
Prognosis, Permanency & Quality of Life in ME/CFS
This booklet covers information on what people may expect following a diagnosis of ME/CFS in terms of disability, improvement, recovery, and quality of life.
Relapses, Exacerbations & Flare-ups
We explain what you can expect from a relapse and how you can best manage any setback in your health, and review the recommendations from the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Severe ME
The information on severe ME taken from the ME Association ME/CFS/PVFS Clinical & Research Guide 2022 Edition (The ‘Purple Book') is now available to download for free. This helpful information from Dr Charles Shepherd, MEA Honorary Medical Adviser can be used to inform healthcare professionals in primary or secondary care about the disease.
Severe ME/CFS: Helping You Cope
In this leaflet, we talk about severe ME/CFS – the symptoms, some thoughts about management, how you can explain your illness to family and carers – together with the kind of help that may be available. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Sleep Management
Failing to have a good night’s sleep on a regular basis is likely to have an adverse effect on all aspects of your health. Various types of sleep disturbance occur in ME/CFS and Long Covid, especially waking up feeling unrefreshed. There are a number of simple self-help strategies that can be of help. In some cases drug treatments have a role to play as well.
Stomach & Irritable Bowel Symptoms
Most people with ME/CFS report that they have stomach and bowel symptoms like those found in IBS. We examine the symptoms, explain how they should to be investigated, and discuss available treatments. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Stress & How to Handle It
We discuss the understandable effect that stress can have on people with ME/CFS, and we the treatment options that are available.
Supplements – Myth or Miracle Cure?
We examine the scientific evidence supporting some of the claims made about the curative properties of supplements. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Template: Flu Vaccine (2025-26)
This template letter can help you obtain a Free NHS Flu vaccination if you have ME/CFS and decide to have one.
Template: Immunisations as Possible Triggers
This letter summarises the evidence both for and against a link between immunisations and ME/CFS.
Travel
Helpful tips for people with ME/CFS and Long Covid, including; planning your trip, choosing the right destination and accommodation, surviving the journey, travel insurance and pre-travel vaccinations, and travel checklists.
Treating ME/CFS: Including research into new and experimental approaches
When it comes to using drugs to treat ME/CFS, there is no curative treatment at present and none on the immediate horizon, but you can learn how to effectively manage the condition, and some drugs are available to help relieve certain symptoms. In this booklet we review what is available and how the different treatment approaches can help, while also considering potential new treatments that are being researched, and the overlap of treatments with Long Covid.
What you need to know about ME/CFS
Written by Dr Katrina Pears, Research Coordinator for The ME Association, this booklet contains evidence-based knowledge and expert medical opinion. It includes ME/CFS background, the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS, research evidence on disease pathology, advancing ME/CFS research and how you can help.
Medication (12)
Dental Care – Your Questions Answered
We help address common questions about maintaining dental hygiene while ill with ME/CFS. We also consider how to best manage mouth ulcers, anaesthetic sensitivity, and the role of antibiotics in dental practice.
Depression – Antidepressants & Other Treatment Options
We explain why suffering from depression is completely understandable when living with ME/CFS and consider the treatment options that are available.
Doctors: How to Establish a Good Relationship
We explain what to expect from your doctor and how you can work to ensure a supportive relationship. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS whose recommendations are now being applied to health and social care services.
Medication – Amitriptyline: Depression, Pain & Sleep Relief
In this booklet, we explain how Amitriptyline was developed as an antidepressant, but is now used more commonly to help with pain and sleep problems that occur in ME/CFS.
Medication – Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Depression & Pain Relief
We discuss anxiety, depression and pain in ME/CFS, and how they can be managed. We feature the drug duloxetine and review the evidence for its use as a symptom-relieving medication.
Medication – Gabapentin (Neurontin): Moderate to Severe Pain Relief
We talk about pain in ME/CFS and how it can be managed. We feature Gabapentin, review the evidence for its use as a pain relief medication, and its legal status as a Class C controlled Drug.
Medication – Lyrica (Pregabalin): Moderate to Severe Pain Relief
We talk about pain in ME/CFS and how it can be managed. We feature Lyrica, review the evidence for its use as a pain relief medication, and its legal status as a Class C controlled Drug.
Menopause – Overview and Research in ME/CFS
We consider all aspects of menopause including diagnosis, symptoms, and treatments, and discuss the effect it can have on women with ME/CFS.
We also look at female hormone research in ME/CFS.
Template: Flu Vaccine (2025-26)
This template letter can help you obtain a Free NHS Flu vaccination if you have ME/CFS and decide to have one.
Template: Immunisations as Possible Triggers
This letter summarises the evidence both for and against a link between immunisations and ME/CFS.
Treating ME/CFS: Including research into new and experimental approaches
When it comes to using drugs to treat ME/CFS, there is no curative treatment at present and none on the immediate horizon, but you can learn how to effectively manage the condition, and some drugs are available to help relieve certain symptoms. In this booklet we review what is available and how the different treatment approaches can help, while also considering potential new treatments that are being researched, and the overlap of treatments with Long Covid.
What you need to know about ME/CFS
Written by Dr Katrina Pears, Research Coordinator for The ME Association, this booklet contains evidence-based knowledge and expert medical opinion. It includes ME/CFS background, the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS, research evidence on disease pathology, advancing ME/CFS research and how you can help.
NICE Guideline (5)
Care and Support Plans
We examine the potential difficulties establishing ongoing care from the NHS. We feature a real-life example, include the recommendations for care and support plans and regular reviews in primary care taken from the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Doctors: How to Establish a Good Relationship
We explain what to expect from your doctor and how you can work to ensure a supportive relationship. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS whose recommendations are now being applied to health and social care services.
Hospital Support Pack
This pack was designed to help you explain the care you need when going into hospital and features references to the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It was jointly produced by the 25% Group, AfME, BRAME, and the ME Association in May 2024.
NICE Guideline on ME/CFS: An ME Association Summary
This booklet is recommended reading. It lets you know what to expect from the NHS and social care services with regard to symptom recognition, diagnosis, management, referral, and ongoing care and support.
What you need to know about ME/CFS
Written by Dr Katrina Pears, Research Coordinator for The ME Association, this booklet contains evidence-based knowledge and expert medical opinion. It includes ME/CFS background, the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS, research evidence on disease pathology, advancing ME/CFS research and how you can help.
Symptoms (38)
A-Z of Symptom Management
In this leaflet, we summarise how medications, self-help strategies, and therapies can be used to manage some of the most common symptoms in ME/CFS.
A-Z Poster of ME/CFS
Following a series of successful social media posts, we have developed an A to Z poster showing the alphabet of common symptoms, experiences, and comorbidities of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).
Anxiety & Panic Attacks – Your Questions Answered
We explain what causes anxiety and panic attacks, why you might get anxious, what you can do to help yourself, and when to seek help from a medical professional.
Autonomic Dysfunction
Profs. Sivan and Newton, and Dr McKeever, explain how to recognise and manage autonomic dysfunction (OI and PoTS etc.) in ME/CFS and Long Covid (Nov. 2023).
Cognitive Dysfunction – Brain Fog
A key symptom of ME/CFS and Long Covid, it can be very frustrating, affecting memory and recall, word-finding, comprehension, reading, writing, concentration and other mental activities. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Cold Hands & Feet (Including Raynaud's)
In this booklet, we explore problems with temperature control (also called disturbed thermoregulation) which are very common in ME/CFS and include sensitivity to both heat and cold.
Counselling – Your Questions Answered
We explain counselling and how therapy can help should an independent professional be needed to work through the understandable emotional problems that can affect people with ME/CFS and Long Covid and those who care for them.
Dental Care – Your Questions Answered
We help address common questions about maintaining dental hygiene while ill with ME/CFS. We also consider how to best manage mouth ulcers, anaesthetic sensitivity, and the role of antibiotics in dental practice.
Depression – Antidepressants & Other Treatment Options
We explain why suffering from depression is completely understandable when living with ME/CFS and consider the treatment options that are available.
Diagnosing ME/CFS
We explain why an early and accurate diagnosis is so important and review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. We examine core symptoms, clinical investigations and blood tests, and other explanations for persistent symptoms.
Disability Rating Scale
We have produced a Disability Rating Scale that expands on the illness severity definitions recommended in the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It is more detailed and relevant, can be used to explain your current situation to others, in medical or benefit discussions, and as an aid to monitoring progress.
Doctors: How to Establish a Good Relationship
We explain what to expect from your doctor and how you can work to ensure a supportive relationship. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS whose recommendations are now being applied to health and social care services.
Emotions – Managing Emotions in ME/CFS
In this booklet, we explore some of the emotions that people with ME/CFS may experience and consider general coping strategies to help manage mental health.
Fatigue – The Nature of Fatigue
A key symptom of ME/CFS and Long Covid, we explain what is meant by debilitating fatigue and how it differs from the ‘chronic fatigue' that occurs in a wide range of other medical and psychiatric illnesses. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Headaches & Migraines
We discuss what we know about headaches and migraines and the way they affect some people with ME/CFS. We also consider when to see your doctor and pharmacist to discuss treatment options. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Hospital Support Pack
This pack was designed to help you explain the care you need when going into hospital and features references to the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS. It was jointly produced by the 25% Group, AfME, BRAME, and the ME Association in May 2024.
Interstitial Cystitis and ME/CFS
Interstitial cystitis is a poorly understood bladder condition that causes uncomfortable symptoms and seems to be more common in people with ME/CFS.
ME Connect – The Support and Information Service
ME Connect is here to listen, to validate, and empathise with any issues you might be facing. The service is staffed by a fully-trained team, and is confidential. It offers a telephone helpline, email, and social media private messaging.
Medication – Amitriptyline: Depression, Pain & Sleep Relief
In this booklet, we explain how Amitriptyline was developed as an antidepressant, but is now used more commonly to help with pain and sleep problems that occur in ME/CFS.
Medication – Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Depression & Pain Relief
We discuss anxiety, depression and pain in ME/CFS, and how they can be managed. We feature the drug duloxetine and review the evidence for its use as a symptom-relieving medication.
Medication – Gabapentin (Neurontin): Moderate to Severe Pain Relief
We talk about pain in ME/CFS and how it can be managed. We feature Gabapentin, review the evidence for its use as a pain relief medication, and its legal status as a Class C controlled Drug.
Medication – Lyrica (Pregabalin): Moderate to Severe Pain Relief
We talk about pain in ME/CFS and how it can be managed. We feature Lyrica, review the evidence for its use as a pain relief medication, and its legal status as a Class C controlled Drug.
Membership – Excellent Reasons to Join!
A leaflet that provides some excellent reasons to become a member of the ME Association. Please also refer to the Membership page of the website. We look forward to welcoming you to the community!
Muscle Energy Supplements
We consider exertion-induced muscle fatigue and examine the effectiveness of the supplements that are sold as being able to increase muscle energy. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Occupational Health Demystified
A comprehensive booklet (written by Dr Helen L Kröning, MA (Cantab) MSc MBChB with European Studies MRCS DOccMed) containing information to help guide interactions and avoid potential pitfalls if you seek Occupational Health input.
Orthostatic Intolerance
In this booklet, we discuss a key symptom in ME/CFS and Long Covid and explain what might be causing loss of balance and dizziness when moving about. We provide information on the main symptoms of Orthostatic Intolerance (OI) and cover ways on how this condition can be managed.
Pain Management
Most people with ME/CFS will experience pain that will likely impact their functional ability and quality of life. We discuss the various types of pain and how each can best be managed. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Personal Relationships & Intimacy
Intimate relations can be important, but among those with ME/CFS or Long Covid they can be a challenge. We explore the issues and provide real-life experiences, which might help you to discuss the topic with your partner. Warning: Adult Content.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS)
We explain PoTS, why it affects some people with ME/CFS (and Long Covid) and how it can be diagnosed and treated. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Prognosis, Permanency & Quality of Life in ME/CFS
This booklet covers information on what people may expect following a diagnosis of ME/CFS in terms of disability, improvement, recovery, and quality of life.
Sensitivities, Intolerances, and Hypersensitivities
In this leaflet, we review common sensitivities, intolerances, and hypersensitivities that can occur in ME/CFS and offer management options and tips. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Sleep Management
Failing to have a good night’s sleep on a regular basis is likely to have an adverse effect on all aspects of your health. Various types of sleep disturbance occur in ME/CFS and Long Covid, especially waking up feeling unrefreshed. There are a number of simple self-help strategies that can be of help. In some cases drug treatments have a role to play as well.
Stomach & Irritable Bowel Symptoms
Most people with ME/CFS report that they have stomach and bowel symptoms like those found in IBS. We examine the symptoms, explain how they should to be investigated, and discuss available treatments. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Stress & How to Handle It
We discuss the understandable effect that stress can have on people with ME/CFS, and we the treatment options that are available.
Template: Immunisations as Possible Triggers
This letter summarises the evidence both for and against a link between immunisations and ME/CFS.
Treating ME/CFS: Including research into new and experimental approaches
When it comes to using drugs to treat ME/CFS, there is no curative treatment at present and none on the immediate horizon, but you can learn how to effectively manage the condition, and some drugs are available to help relieve certain symptoms. In this booklet we review what is available and how the different treatment approaches can help, while also considering potential new treatments that are being researched, and the overlap of treatments with Long Covid.
What you need to know about ME/CFS
Written by Dr Katrina Pears, Research Coordinator for The ME Association, this booklet contains evidence-based knowledge and expert medical opinion. It includes ME/CFS background, the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS, research evidence on disease pathology, advancing ME/CFS research and how you can help.
Research Reviews (5)
MEA Illness Management Report (2015)
Details the ME Association position on the controversial graded exercise and cognitive behavioural therapies and explains why we support the activity management approach known simply as Pacing.
MEA Research Review: Mortality in ME/CFS
ME/CFS is rarely cited when compared to other causes of death in the UK; however, some aspects relating to people with severe or very severe ME/CFS may potentially make it a life-shortening illness. Written by Dr Katrina Pears, MEA Research Correspondent.
MEA Research Review: Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM) in ME/CFS and Long Covid
This comprehensive research review outlines the key biological changes that occur during Post Exertional Malaise (PEM) in many different systems of the body. Research evidence shows that the presence of PEM cannot be disputed, and is not due to inactivity or deconditioning. Written by Dr Katrina Pears, MEA Research Correspondent.
MEA Research Review: The role of Mitochondria in ME/CFS
An overview of mitochondrial research; explaining what mitochondria are, exploring the possibility of mitochondrial dysfunction as the cause of ME/CFS and offering other possible explanations.
Membership – Excellent Reasons to Join!
A leaflet that provides some excellent reasons to become a member of the ME Association. Please also refer to the Membership page of the website. We look forward to welcoming you to the community!
Travel (1)
Vaccinations (3)
Flu Vaccination and ME/CFS (2025-2026)
This leaflet is to supply you with everything you need to know about flu vaccines and ME/CFS. This information may help you to make an informed decision after speaking with your doctor, as to whether you ought to have this protection.
Template: Flu Vaccine (2025-26)
This template letter can help you obtain a Free NHS Flu vaccination if you have ME/CFS and decide to have one.
Vitamins and Supplements (9)
Alternative and Complementary Approaches
Due to a lack of any effective treatment in ME/CFS, it’s not surprising to find that many people turn to the alternative and complementary (ACM) health sectors for help with their symptoms. This comprehensive booklet covers a wide range of therapies and highlights treatments where there is good quality evidence to demonstrate that they are both safe and effective.
Diet and Nutrition
We examine the role of diet, how it can help to improve health when suffering from ME/CFS and Long Covid and ways we could improve what we eat and how we eat it. We consider malnutrition and how essential nutrition should be provided when severely or very severely affected. And, we share diet trends and tips and answer commonly asked questions from the patient community.
Essential Fatty Acids
Including EPA, fish oil, and evening primrose oil supplements. We consider what they do, how helpful they might be, and if they are safe for people with ME/CFS. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Muscle Energy Supplements
We consider exertion-induced muscle fatigue and examine the effectiveness of the supplements that are sold as being able to increase muscle energy. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Supplements – Myth or Miracle Cure?
We examine the scientific evidence supporting some of the claims made about the curative properties of supplements. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Treating ME/CFS: Including research into new and experimental approaches
When it comes to using drugs to treat ME/CFS, there is no curative treatment at present and none on the immediate horizon, but you can learn how to effectively manage the condition, and some drugs are available to help relieve certain symptoms. In this booklet we review what is available and how the different treatment approaches can help, while also considering potential new treatments that are being researched, and the overlap of treatments with Long Covid.
Vitamin D & Deficiency
Deficiencies and treatments. Sources and benefits. We examine vitamin D, consider if deficiency is likely in ME/CFS and how it can be treated. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Vitamins & Vitamin Supplements
We explain what vitamins and supplements are and if people with ME/CFS need them. You might also like to review the NICE Guideline on ME/CFS.
Further reading:
ME Association Free Literature
Caring for a Person with ME/CFS
Causation – What do we know about the causes of ME/CFS?
Children and Adolescents
Cognitive Dysfunction – Brain Fog
Cold Hands & Feet (Including Raynaud's)
Counselling – Your Questions Answered
Covid-19: Long Covid & ME/CFS
Covid-19: Long Covid and ME/CFS – Are they the same condition?
Covid-19: Reducing Risk of Infection
CPD Training with MIMS Learning
CPD Training with StudyPRN
