Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms after a brain injury. While it may decrease after the first few weeks or months, it can also increase when you return to your usual activities (such as going back home or to work).
Fatigue is linked to several mechanisms, including taking on too many activities at once. This requires a level of concentration that you were spared during your stay in the hospital. In addition, it is possible to experience a “rebound” effect related to the energy mobilized to cope with the stress of the events experienced (diagnosis, accident, etc.). It is necessary to gradually resume activities while maintaining rest periods.
Fatigue can also be associated with mood, in the case of sadness, irritation or anxiety, for example. Thus, a drop in morale is sometimes accompanied by a drop in energy. Vicious circles can be established with the feeling of going backwards or not getting better.
To break this cycle, you can try a few strategies:
- Take care of your sleep hygiene
- Monitor your body’s physiological needs (rest, food, for example)
- Get physical exercise
- Observe the activities that tire you
- Simplify your schedule.
It is also important to engage in enjoyable activities and to manage your stress in the best way possible on a daily basis. You can also find examples of tips and relaxation exercises by clicking on the links below.