A 3-day course for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
Official title: A 3-day Course for Adults With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalopathy (CFS/ME): a Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by Norwegian University of Science and Technology · NCT05236465 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a 3-day program called the Lightning Process can help adults with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome feel better and improve their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Norwegian University of Science and Technology Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Trondheim) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 21, 2022 |
| Main results expected | January 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 1, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | November 26, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05236465 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults diagnosed with CFS/ME who are at least 50% out of school or work and are ready to engage in a change process.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with underlying physical or mental disorders that explain their symptoms, those at risk of suicide, or those who are bedridden will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effects of a 3-day course called the Lightning Process on adults diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). The course incorporates elements of stress theory and Positive Psychology to help participants regulate their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, potentially improving their symptoms and quality of life. The study will assess both positive and negative outcomes, including disability and work participation, with a follow-up to evaluate long-term effects. Adverse events will be monitored and managed according to established protocols.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the quality of life and functional capacity of patients with CFS/ME.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of the Lightning Process specifically, similar interventions focusing on psychological approaches have shown promise in managing CFS/ME symptoms.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * CFS/ME diagnosis based on the Canada Consensus Criteria. * At least 50% out of school/work. * Readiness to change (corresponding to the preparation phase in transtheoretical model) * Has given informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Assessed by a General Practitioner (GP): * Underlying physical illness or mental disorder that may explain the symptoms. * Suicide risk/previous suicide attempts. * Pregnancy. * Bedridden and in need of continuous care. * Insufficient Norwegian speaking or writing skills to participate in the 3-day course and fill out questionnaires.
Where it's running
-
Department of Psychology, NTNU
Trondheim, Norway Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Leif Edward Ottesen Kennair, PhD prof — NTNU, Department of Psychology
- Study coordinator: Leif Edward Ottesen Kennair, PhD prof
- Email: kennair@ntnu.no
- Phone: +47 90557004
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Using Lumbrokinase to treat Long Covid, Lyme Disease, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
This study is testing if a treatment called Lumbrokinase can help adults with Long Covid, Lyme Disease, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome feel better and improve their quality of life.
-
A study using wearable devices to manage Long COVID symptoms
This study is testing if using wearable devices can help people with Long COVID manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
-
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for ME/CFS
This study tests whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help people with mild to moderate ME/CFS.
-
Remote Voice Analysis Tool to Help Diagnose and Monitor ME/CFS
A voice-based tool is tested to help diagnose and manage myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome in people who have the condition.
-
Hydrogen water to reduce fatigue and improve function in ME/CFS
This project will try hydrogen water in adults with ME/CFS to see if it reduces fatigue and improves function and whether heart rate variability can predict who benefits.
-
Using vagus nerve stimulation with exercise to help chronic fatigue
This study is testing if using a special nerve stimulation along with a tailored exercise program can help people with chronic fatigue from fibromyalgia or long Covid feel better and recover faster.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.