Abstract
Background: Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition characterized by a complex assortment of biological, psychological, and functional issues. In the literature, while a debate persists in terms of CFS etiology and treatment options, very rudimentary queries also linger in terms of associated CFS demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, comorbid psychiatric diagnoses, and potentially deleterious life challenges and experiences which, if more definitively clarified, may help elucidate illness origin and management. Methods: Using data extracted from the Canadian Community Health Survey – Mental Health (CCHS-MH) (Statistics Canada, 2013) for adults aged 20 to 64 years of age, the current study developed a descriptive statistical profile of demographic, socioeconomic, psychiatric, and life experience characteristics of Canadians reporting a diagnosis of CFS. Further, a series of two-factor Chi Square tests were carried out to determine whether featured variables were significantly more likely for CFS sufferers as compared to adult Canadians without a CFS diagnosis. Results: It was observed that those reporting a CFS diagnosis were significantly more likely to be female, between the ages of 45-64, divorced or separated, living alone, unemployed or unable to work, and of relatively low personal income. CFS sufferers were also more likely to have comorbid psychiatric diagnoses including lifetime and 12-month Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and substance dependence, as well as self-reported posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleeping troubles, and reported histories of childhood physical and sexual maltreatment. Conclusions: A very compelling demographic, socioeconomic, psychiatric, and life history profile of CFS sufferers emerged in this study, corroborating many findings in the literature. Since this study involved a national assessment CFS across Canada, it may afford some lucidity and insight in terms of etiological implications, and hence more precision in diagnosis, and potentially innovative treatment options. Future topics of inquiry, and potential limitations are also considered.
Mental Health and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Is Mental Health the Culprit Behind Your Fatigue?