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Chronic fatigue syndrome among overseas development workers: A qualitative study.
1Oxford University Psychiatry Department, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, England.
Journal of Travel Medicine
|March 10, 1999
Summary
Overseas development workers developing chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) often attribute it to overwork, stress, and infections. This qualitative study highlights their experiences and coping mechanisms, suggesting work-related stress management is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Background:
- Overseas development workers have a high incidence of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
- Qualitative research is needed to understand their perception of the condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how overseas development workers perceive their chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
- To explore the causes, consequences, and coping mechanisms related to CFS in this population.
Main Methods:
- Interviews were conducted with twelve individuals who developed CFS while working overseas or shortly after visiting development projects.
- Grounded theory approach was used to analyze the interview responses.
Main Results:
- Participants, previously healthy, attributed CFS to overwork, stress, and infections, not depression.
- Key challenges included premature departure from projects, pain, powerlessness, and loss of independence.
- Coping strategies involved religious beliefs, social comparisons, positive reframing, and social support.
Conclusions:
- Theories linking CFS to unacknowledged emotional difficulties may not apply to this subgroup.
- High work-related stress is common in development work, necessitating stress management training.
- Development organizations should prioritize rest and reduce work pressures for their employees.