Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 65

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 typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
Enrollment100 (estimated)
SponsorNorwegian University of Science and Technology
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Trondheim)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 21, 2022
Main results expectedJanuary 1, 2027
Study endsDecember 1, 2028
Registry record updatedNovember 26, 2025
Trial IDNCT05236465 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.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.