Recovery from chronic fatigue syndrome: a reflexive thematic analysis of experiences of people before, during and after treatment

Recovery is a blend of 'clinical recovery', 'personal recovery' and 'illness management' models applied to other chronic conditions. Data suggests that concepts can change, and treatment may result in patients adopting views more in line with 'personal recovery' and 'illness management' models. These more flexible definitions, particularly those comprising changes to pre-illness beliefs and behaviours, new roles, acceptance and strategies to manage symptoms, corresponded with greater hope. Findings may help to inform realistic treatment expectations and contribute to more meaningful outcome measures.