"Have you tried more exercise? Or is it depression?", what you've probably been told
ME/CFS
NHS guideline NG206 (2021) replaced the old CG53 guideline. It explicitly removes graded exercise therapy as a treatment, requires recognition of post-exertional malaise, and sets a clear diagnostic pathway.
The wait: Average diagnosis takes 6.8 years in the UK.
What GPs miss
GPs trained on older guidance sometimes still recommend graded exercise. NG206 explicitly says this should not be offered to people with ME/CFS. The letter makes this current obligation visible.
The letter asks for
- Recognition of ME/CFS where the four core symptoms are present
- A management plan consistent with NG206, not the withdrawn CG53
- No recommendation of graded exercise therapy
- Referral to a specialist ME/CFS service for confirmation
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Frequently asked questions
My GP wants me to do graded exercise, is that current?
No. NHS guideline NG206 explicitly states that graded exercise therapy should not be offered to people with ME/CFS. The letter cites this directly.
What you hear vs. what NG206 says
What's usually said in the room
"Have you tried more exercise? Or is it depression?"
What the guideline actually says
GPs trained on older guidance sometimes still recommend graded exercise. NG206 explicitly says this should not be offered to people with ME/CFS. The letter makes this current obligation visible.
Benefits and rights for ME/CFS
PIP for ME/CFS
PEM, the reliability test, and how to score.
Read the guide →
LCWRA on Universal Credit
Substantial-risk rule for PEM-driven crashes.
Read the guide →
ME/CFS diagnosis (NG206)
How the NHS should diagnose and manage ME/CFS.
Read the guide →
Motability scheme (UK)
Use Higher-Rate Mobility PIP to lease a car for ME/CFS energy limits.
Read the guide →
Outcomes from people with ME/CFS
One short email each Sunday, anonymised stories from people who got their GP to take them seriously.