Following a COVID-19 infection, a significant proportion of patients are experiencing lasting symptoms, commonly referred to as long-COVID or Post-COVID Syndrome, with severe and debilitating fatigue being the most prevalent.

Research from Amsterdam UMC, RadboudUMC, and three other hospitals has revealed that cognitive behavioural therapy can help individuals suffering from post-viral fatigue due to COVID-19.

According to Hans Knoop, Professor of Medical Psychology at Amsterdam UMC and the lead researcher, patients who underwent this therapy experienced reduced fatigue and concentration issues.

Moreover, they exhibited improved physical and social functioning, and these benefits persisted even after six months.

These findings have been published in Clinical Infectious Diseases today.

A considerable number of patients experience ongoing symptoms following a COVID-19 infection, commonly referred to as long-COVID or Post-COVID Syndrome, with severe and debilitating fatigue being the most prevalent symptom.

A recent study, called ReCOVer and funded by ZonMw, examined the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy versus standard care for these patients. Typically, standard care includes oversight from a general practitioner or specialist, along with physiotherapy and/or occupational therapy.

Addressing Fatigue: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Approach for COVID-19 Survivors

In the quest to alleviate persistent fatigue in COVID-19 patients, cognitive behavioral therapy takes a fresh approach by addressing the symptoms differently. Collaborating closely with patients, the therapy focuses on improving the sleep-wake rhythm and gradually increasing activity levels with safe, incremental steps such as short walks.

According to Knoop, this approach helps patients “become more active again with small, safe steps.”

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy proves effective in improving concentration

The new study finds cognitive behavioral therapy effectively improves concentration and reduces fatigue in patients. The results of the treatment were found to be sustainable even after six months of completion, demonstrating its long-lasting benefits. Additionally, patients experienced notable improvements in their social and physical functioning. Researchers suggest that cognitive behavioral therapy is a safe treatment option with no observed worsening of symptoms or the development of new ones.

“Cognitive behavioural therapy also appears to be a safe treatment. Our research shows that the symptoms did not worsen, and new symptoms arose less often,” says Knoop.

According to the researchers, it is crucial to acknowledge that while behavioural therapy can be beneficial in treating post-COVID syndrome, it does not necessarily imply that the symptoms have a psychological origin. Additionally, not all individuals may respond positively to this therapy.

Therefore, it remains imperative to explore alternative effective treatments, as well as investigate the physical factors underlying the development of post-COVID syndrome.

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