What to do in case of chronic fatigue after infections
Interview with Dr Suzanne von Blumenthal
As a result of viral infections, individuals may experience long-lasting complications even after the acute phase has resolved. Pfeiffer's glandular fever, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, is a typical example, as are other illnesses from the herpes virus family. More recently, the coronavirus has drawn significant attention, with long or post-COVID syndrome becoming a widely discussed topic in both the media and public discourse.
We spoke with Dr. Suzanne von Blumenthal about the role of stress management and the potential benefits of Psychosomatic Energetics (PSE) in this context. She served as the head physician at a psychiatric clinic in Graubünden, Switzerland, until 2017 and continues to work as an attending physician at the affiliated private clinic, Mentalva. Additionally, she runs her own practice and serves as the director of an institute offering professional training in PSE and Logosynthesis in Bad Ragaz.
Hello, Dr. von Blumenthal. Is it possible for all viral diseases to develop into a ‘long’ or ‘post-syndrome,’ or does this primarily occur with coronaviruses and herpes viruses?
The two viruses you mentioned are frequently associated with long-term effects. In recent years, the so-called post-Covid syndrome, characterized by severe exhaustion, has gained significant public attention. However, late effects are also well-documented with Pfeiffer's glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis). Influenza viruses and dengue viruses can likewise lead to similar symptoms. In the past, such syndromes were often referred to as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).
Let’s examine the issue from the perspective of Psychosomatic Energetics (PSE). How does PSE address a condition like long or post-Covid syndrome, both diagnostically and therapeutically?
The most common symptoms are fatigue and exhaustion. In PSE, these are often associated with low vital energy. Affected individuals have insufficient energy on a physical level and struggle to recover adequately. They frequently experience difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep, which disrupts not only regeneration but also the metabolic and repair processes that occur during the night. The parasympathetic autonomic nervous system is particularly blocked. This is precisely where PSE intervenes therapeutically, aiming to regulate and support the autonomic nervous system. For this purpose, the acute remedies Simvita and Paravita, along with all conflict remedies – especially those targeting the stress axis related to chakras 2 and 6 – are utilized. These interventions also address related symptoms such as depressive moods, concentration difficulties, increased susceptibility to infections, and disturbances in the senses of smell and taste, by energetically influencing these conditions.
Furthermore, the conflict remedies associated with chakra 4 can positively influence symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, and anxiety. The conflict remedy for the 5th chakra is used to energetically address and resolve speech disorders.
The processes involved in defending against viruses, particularly the activation of the immune system, are also crucial. When an immune response is triggered, it activates stress processing in the body through the stimulation of the sympathetic autonomic nervous system. If this immune reaction persists – specifically when the body can no longer effectively manage stressors such as viruses – it can lead to emotional and psychological stress responses, including irritability, depressive moods, or anxiety. This creates a feedback loop that impacts the immune response: T-helper cells are reduced, and lymphocyte levels in the blood decrease. Additionally, when the vagus nerve or parasympathetic nervous system is disrupted, the inflammatory response is no longer properly regulated, leading to an excessive and prolonged inflammatory reaction.
Would it be fair to say that the significant stress caused by the coronavirus measures was counterproductive and may have contributed to fueling long- and post-Covid issues in the first place?
The pandemic has caused significant uncertainty, eroding trust in oneself, others, and the world. The measures implemented, such as increased social distancing, have further amplified these challenges. This has negatively impacted the ability to cope with stress. On the one hand, the body's immune defenses have been further weakened; on the other hand, it has resulted in heightened anxiety and stronger emotional reactions.
What factors do you consider essential for successful stress management, and what role can Psychosomatic Energetics (PSE) play in achieving this?
The most important factors in stress management are fostering relaxation and rest in the body, along with building trust and receiving human support to stabilize the psyche. When individuals develop greater trust and confidence, their fears naturally diminish.
PSE plays a dual role: it helps regulate energy processes at the cellular level and releases energy blockages. As a result, more energy becomes available for immune defense and fostering confidence. This leads to a significant reduction in stress reactions, thereby strengthening both the body and the psyche.
Could you share a case study from your practice to help illustrate this in action?
A 41-year-old woman was referred to me for further treatment of a depressive episode. Her case history revealed that she had contracted Covid in November 2021, experiencing symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and memory loss for a few days. In March 2022, she suffered a "nervous breakdown" and had to stop working. It was determined that she was experiencing Long Covid symptoms. Her treatment initially consisted of anti-inflammatory medications, specifically the painkillers ibuprofen and metamizole. Following intensive occupational and physiotherapy, along with support from a Long Covid medical consultation, she attempted to return to work in August 2022. However, within a few days, she suffered a relapse, presenting with fatigue, headaches, and depressive symptoms. After a brief inpatient stay and adjustment to the antidepressant vortioxetine, she was referred to my outpatient practice at the end of September 2022.
The PSE test revealed the following energy levels: vital 60, emotional 80, mental 60, and causal 70. The conflict was located in chakra 6, aligned with the stress axis, specifically conflict 19, "timidly despondent." Shortly after starting the PSE drops, the patient reported relief from her lumbar pain, which is related to the top-bottom coupling of chakra 2. She also experienced increased energy, allowing her to better manage her daily activities. Additionally, she became more mentally present, with noticeable improvements in her memory and concentration within just four weeks of starting PSE therapy. Her mood significantly improved, although she continued to experience fatigue more easily than before.
Dr. von Blumenthal, thank you very much for this insightful interview.
The interview was conducted by Andreas Beutel from the newsletter team in April 2024.