Citation

Morehouse S, Schaible K, Williams O, Herlache-Pretzer E, Webster S. Fatigue 2021; 9(2): 113-122.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/21641846.2021.1950406

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating condition that can negatively affect physical and mental health [1,2]. People with ME/CFS report lower perceived levels of social support, which further exacerbate challenges with mental health and has been linked to a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety in this population [3]. There are many mental health benefits associated with participation in in-person support groups; however, it is unknown if these benefits translate to online support groups [5].

PURPOSE: To examine the perceived impacts of participation in online support groups on depression, anxiety and quality of life among people with ME/CFS.

RESULTS: Responses (n = 76) to an online survey indicated positive and negative experiences with participation in online support groups. Positive experiences included a sense of belonging, validation, supportive friendships and feelings of positively impacting others. Negative experiences included jealousy, decreased hope and optimism and disagreement regarding treatment strategies.

CONCLUSION: Participation in online support groups was believed to decrease perceived feelings of depression and increase the quality of life in those with ME/CFS. No significant impacts on anxiety were found. Overall, participants reported engagement in online support groups to be a positive experience. © 2021 IACFS/ME.

Language: en

Keywords

adult; human; jealousy; mental health; suicide; female; male; aged; quality of life; depression; anxiety; major clinical study; questionnaire; life satisfaction; trust; chronic fatigue syndrome; happiness; Article; Chronic fatigue syndrome; semi structured interview; optimism; friendship; health care survey; Hamilton Depression Rating Scale; online support group; myalgic encephalomyelitis; online support groups; online survey