Imagine waking up more exhausted than when you went to bed. Every task-brushing your teeth, making a meal, checking your email-feels like climbing a mountain. A short walk can steal your energy for days. And yet, on the outside, you “look fine.”
This is the reality for people living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)-a complex, often misunderstood condition that affects an estimated 250,000 Australians. This statistic is most likely under-estimating the prevalence.
At Active Health Clinic, we see this condition for what it truly is: a life-altering, systemic illness that deserves compassion, clarity, and care. And we’re here to help make the invisible visible.
What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis?
ME/CFS is a neurological and multisystem disease marked by profound, persistent fatigue and a unique symptom known as Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM)-a worsening of symptoms following even minor physical, mental, or emotional exertion.
But fatigue is only part of the story.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Symptoms
People with ME/CFS often experience:
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Unrefreshing sleep
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Cognitive dysfunction ("brain fog")
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Muscle and joint pain
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Headaches
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Dizziness and orthostatic intolerance
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Flu-like symptoms, sore throats, and tender glands
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Gastrointestinal issues
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Sensitivity to light, noise, smell, temperature or movement
Symptoms can vary day-to-day, hour-to-hour, and person-to-person. But for many, ME/CFS can become profoundly disabling-with 25% of people experiencing such severe symptoms that they are housebound or bedbound. Again, this statistic is most likely under-estimating the prevalence as those who are severe often are missing from data, research, statistics and their lives.
What Causes Myalgic Encephalomyelitis?
The exact cause is still unknown-but we’re learning more each year. ME/CFS is likely triggered by a combination of factors, including:
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Genetic predisposition
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Infections (viral or bacterial)
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Physical trauma, injury, or surgery
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Significant emotional stress
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Mitochondrial or energy production dysfunction
It often follows a post-viral onset, which is why conditions like Long COVID share many overlapping features with ME/CFS.
Who Gets It?
ME/CFS can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. But research shows:
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It most commonly develops between young to middle adulthood
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Around 75-80% of people diagnosed are AFAB (assigned female at birth)
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People with other complex conditions-like Fibromyalgia, POTS, MCAS or Hypermobility-are more likely to develop ME/CFS
Common Misconceptions (And Why They’re Harmful)
Let’s bust some myths:
🚫 “It’s just tiredness.”
No-it’s not the tiredness you feel after a long day. It’s whole-body exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest and can last years.
🚫 “It’s all in your head.”
ME/CFS is a real, physiological condition recognised by the World Health Organization, the CDC, and Australia’s Department of Health.
🚫 “You just need to exercise more.”
Wrong again. For people with ME/CFS, pushing through activity can worsen symptoms due to PEM. Rest isn’t laziness-it’s essential.
Diagnosing Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
There’s no single test for ME/CFS.
Diagnosis is made by ruling out other conditions, and symptoms must be present for at least 6 months in adults (3 months in children/Adolescents). The hallmark of diagnosis is Post-Exertional Malaise.
It’s often a long, frustrating process. But the right clinician-and the right support-can make a world of difference.
Managing Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: There’s No Cure, But There Is Hope
There is currently no cure for ME/CFS. But that doesn’t mean there’s no way forward.
At Active Health Clinic, we focus on evidence-informed, whole-person management strategies to help you live better, even with a complex diagnosis.
Here’s what we offer-and what we’ve seen make the biggest difference:
🧭 Pacing
The cornerstone of ME/CFS management. Learning to stay within your energy limits can prevent crashes and improve stability. We teach energy envelope theory, types of rest, and functional capacity tracking to help you take control. And so much more.
🧠 Education
Understanding the neurophysiology of fatigue, nervous system function, and the effects of stress is incredibly empowering.
🧘 Nervous System Regulation
Techniques like gentle breath work, grounding, safe movement, and mind-body therapies help reduce symptom flares and improve resilience.
🧑⚕️ Multidisciplinary Support
We bring together Exercise Physiologists, Dietitians, Occupational Therapists, and more-to support you from every angle.
🍽️ Nutrition & Gut Support
ME/CFS often overlaps with gut challenges, appetite changes, and sensitivities. We support gentle nutrition, hydration strategies, and mast cell-informed care when needed.
🛏️ Sleep Strategies
We support unrefreshing sleep and circadian rhythm regulation-without relying solely on medication.
You're Not Alone. And You're Not Imagining It.
Living with ME/CFS can be isolating. It can feel like no one gets it, especially when your symptoms are invisible.
But we do. We see you.
We believe you.
And we’re here to help.
You don’t need to push harder. You need a plan that meets your body where it’s at. Whether you're newly diagnosed, navigating severe symptoms, or still waiting for answers, our team is here to guide you.
Let’s Make the Invisible Visible-Together
ME/CFS is real. It’s complex. And while there’s no quick fix, there is a way to reclaim your life, one step (and one rest) at a time.
At Active Health Clinic, we walk alongside you with education, empathy, and experience.
You don’t need to do this alone. And you don’t have to figure it all out today.
We’ll meet you where you are.
Let’s make the invisible visible, together.
As always, sending love & spoons,
Raeya, COO of AHC
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