18 independently peer-reviewed published studies
The research behind the Lightning Process
We understand how difficult it can be to sift through information to find what works. Research teams worldwide have studied the LP — here's what they found. Read the academic statement →
18Published studies
0Reported side effects
90%+Long COVID improvement
RCTNHS · Univ. of Bristol
Studied by
NHS University of Bristol London Metropolitan University BMJ Explore Journal MS-UK Brighton & Sussex Medical School
Key research headlines
Information last reviewed February 2025. Select a condition to find the research most relevant to you — or browse all 18 studies.
All studies
Long COVID
CFS / ME
Cancer fatigue
Substance use
Reviews & surveys
Other conditions
SMILE trial: LP vs specialist medical care for paediatric CFS/ME
"LP improved patients' physical function and fatigue and had no side effects when added to NHS treatment. Positive changes continued for the entire 12-month study."
Fatigue improved Physical function improved Anxiety improved Depression improved 0 side effects Sustained 12 months
Read the full RCT (BMJ) First systematic review of all LP evidence
"Strong evidence that the LP helps many participants with fatigue, physical function, pain, anxiety and depression. All studies found strong evidence of benefit — and no side effects or harms."
Fatigue improved Physical function improved Pain improved Anxiety & depression improved 0 side effects across all studies
Read the full systematic review 12-case audit of LP for Long COVID
"The Lightning Process is a promising and safe intervention for symptoms of long COVID. Primary care clinicians can refer patients for treatment with a high chance of benefit without fear of harm."
90%+ reported 85% back to normal Significant improvements in all participants 0 side effects
Read the full paper Two peer-reviewed case reports: LP for Long COVID in primary care
"Both patients reported improvements in fatigue and a range of physical and emotional symptoms post-treatment and at 3-month follow-up."
Fatigue reduced Physical & emotional symptoms improved Benefits sustained at 3 months
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Comparing LP to CBT and specialist medical care for paediatric CFS/ME
"Distinct elements of LP were identified: its focus on language style, neurophysiological rationale, affective/physiological change technique and mode of delivery — not simply CBT repackaged."
Distinct from CBT Unique neurophysiological approach Unique mode of delivery
Read the full paper The Alpine Study: LP for CFS/ME, fibromyalgia, pain, anxiety and depression
"The LP decreased pain and fatigue levels and increased well-being at 1 month post-intervention, with improvements maintained at 3 and 6 months."
Pain reduced Fatigue reduced Well-being improved Sustained at 6 months
Read the full study Experiences of young people who underwent LP for CFS/ME
"Of 9 participants with CFS/ME, 7 were satisfied and were much improved."
78% satisfied and much improved
Read the full study Patient perspectives on recovery from ME/CFS
"Mind-body approaches were highlighted by individuals who achieved full recovery. Those who recovered using LP noted it offered a path others in the ME/CFS community often discourage — but it worked for them."
Full recovery reported Mind-body approach highlighted
Read the full study LP for chronic fatigue in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors
"Statistically significant improvements for all outcome measures. The reductions in fatigue scores were remarkable — no changes had been reported over the preceding years."
Fatigue significantly reduced Energy improved Quality of life improved Anxiety & depression improved 0 negative side effects
Read the full study LP for alcohol and substance use: RCT and qualitative study
"LP significantly reduced alcohol use and impulsivity, and increased flourishing scores compared to treatment as usual. Described as an empowering, compassionate and effective approach."
Alcohol use reduced Impulsivity reduced Flourishing increased Benefits sustained 3 months
LP for Multiple Sclerosis: proof of concept
"The LP provided measurable benefits to those with MS across the 12-month study period, with no negative incidents. Results indicate it would be worth pursuing a full RCT."
Benefits for all participants 0 negative incidents Sustained 12 months
Read the full study LP for chronic pain in young people
"Structured cooperation between doctor and LP instructor contributed to significant pain reduction and improvement in quality of life for 9 of 12 participants."
Pain significantly reduced (9/12) Quality of life improved
Read the full study (translated) Snapshot survey of LP outcomes across conditions
"81.3% of clients report improvement after the LP course."
81.3% reported improvement
Read the full survey ME Association 2010 survey: LP rated #1 out of 25 approaches
"The LP received the highest percentage out of all 25 approaches for those feeling they had 'greatly improved' — outranking both CBT and GET."
#1 rated for 'greatly improved' Outranked CBT and GET
Read more Brighton & Sussex Medical School: LP identified as most helpful approach
"44% of society members found the Lightning Process 'very helpful' and 36% 'reasonably helpful' — the most helpful approach in the survey."
44% found it very helpful 80% very or reasonably helpful #1 most helpful approach
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18 studies. Consistent results. No side effects.
The LP begins with Part 1 — an audio programme you can work through in your own time, at your own pace.