Which statement describes the non-pharmacologic management for ME/CFS as described?

• A. Aggressive aerobic training
• B. Cognitive behavioral therapy and low-impact exercises
• C. Supportive care without activity modification
• D. Rest in bed for extended periods

Answer: (C)

In ME/CFS, non-pharmacologic management centers on supportive, symptom‑driven care rather than aggressive treatments. The idea is to help the patient cope, protect function, and minimize triggers like overexertion, with practical measures such as sleep hygiene, nutrition, stress management, and education about pacing and energy conservation. The statement describing supportive care without enforcing a specific active regimen fits this conservative approach: it emphasizes planning around the patient’s symptoms and needs rather than pushing a fixed exercise program or other intensive interventions.

Aggressive aerobic training can provoke post-exertional malaise and worsen symptoms, so it’s not appropriate as a non-pharmacologic strategy. Resting in bed for long periods leads to deconditioning and does not address daily management. While some care plans may include CBT or low‑impact activity on an individualized basis, the described approach here centers on supportive, patient‑led care, making it the best match to the non-pharmacologic management described.