Fatigatio e.V. - Bundesverband ME/CFS

Founded in 1993, Fatigatio e.V. is Germany’s largest ME/CFS self-help organisation, with several thousand members.

For more than three decades, the association has worked to represent and defend the interests of people living with ME/CFS and their families. It combines patient support with strong political advocacy, striving to improve healthcare structures, advance biomedical research, and increase public understanding of this serious and often misunderstood disease.

Focus Areas

Fatigatio e.V. calls for three central measures to improve the situation for people with ME/CFS in Germany:

• Establishment and expansion of specialised care services in hospitals, medical practices, and outpatient clinics
• Increased research into disease mechanisms, diagnostics, and effective therapies
• Medical training, public education, and sustained awareness campaigns

These priorities reflect the urgent need for structured care pathways and science-based recognition of ME/CFS within the German healthcare system.

Working Together at European Level

As a founding member of the European ME Alliance, Fatigatio e.V. works closely with EMEA on:

• Advocacy at European level
• Information-sharing between member organisations
• Joint projects and campaigns
• Coordinated public relations efforts

Its long-standing experience strengthens collective European action.

Key Achievements & Recent Initiatives

Fatigatio e.V. plays an active role in national health and disability policy, including:

• Participation in the German Federal Ministries’ Alliance Against Post-Infectious Diseases
• Representation on patient advisory boards in numerous medical studies, as well as in medical and political committees
• Development and implementation of a pilot project to improve care for people with ME/CFS
• Initiation of art projects led by people affected by ME/CFS, raising awareness among diverse audiences and highlighting lived experience

Through these initiatives, the organisation ensures that patient perspectives are present wherever decisions are made.

Support for Patients & Families

Fatigatio e.V. provides a wide range of support services, including:

• A telephone helpline and dedicated social support team
• 18 regional and virtual self-help groups across Germany
• Patient guides and informational brochures
• Events and panel discussions bringing together people affected, policymakers, and experts

These services create connection, strengthen community, and empower patients with reliable information.

Support for Healthcare Professionals

To improve professional knowledge and clinical practice, Fatigatio e.V.:

• Organises an annual scientific symposium presenting the latest research findings
• Develops and distributes evidence-based informational materials
• Engages directly with medical professionals through targeted meetings and dialogue
• Provides training for medical facilities and healthcare personnel

Strengthening medical education remains a cornerstone of its work.