Transcript
Hi, I'm Emma.
In this video,
I would like to offer my tips
to help cope with fatigue.
After a stroke
or brain injury,
your brain must work harder.
It is important to accept
that a brain injury
needs time to repair itself.
And it is normal
to experience fatigue.
This fatigue is unlike
any other
you may have
experienced before.
My first tip
is to not beat yourself up
about it.
For some people,
it will go away
after a while.
But for most,
it is something
you will live with
for a long time.
My second tip
is to find out
what makes your
fatigue worse,
and what makes it better,
to work out
how best
you can cope with it.
For me, initially,
a noisy environment,
lots of background music
and chatter
was disastrous.
Over time
I have been able to cope
with this noise
for a longer period.
But I still find it
very tiring
to try
and have a conversation
or concentrate
when the background
noise is high.
Next,
I would suggest
pacing yourself
throughout the day.
Work out
when you are at your best
and schedule activities
for then.
For me, mornings are best.
I do my exercises
to wake myself up.
Get the good
endorphins going.
And then I am
set up for the day.
But, listen to your body.
And take breaks
as you need them.
Hydrate often.
I work from home
three days a week.
And this is much better
for my concentration.
Even just taking 5 minutes
each hour to stretch, move
or drink
can recharge you.
During the day,
if I am fatigued,
I would take a long
lunch break
and do something relaxing.
This could be watching TV
or listening to an audiobook
or music
or just being
with my thoughts.
In the early days post stroke
I needed a lay down each day
and sometimes a sleep.
If you need to sleep
during the day, do it.
Don't feel guilty.
Plan meals ahead
and buy pre-prepared things.
For example,
veggies already cut up
or frozen in portions.
Or healthy frozen meals.
Prepare ahead for a day
that you know
you will be busy
and have an easy
meal planned.
Be aware
that a change of routine
could make you fatigued,
especially
if it involves travel
or lots of concentration.
I try to factor this in
and plan
an easy day
either side of the event.
Advise your family
and friends
of your need to rest.
And they will understand
if you need to withdraw
for a while.
I have also found that
being in nature
helps recharge my batteries.
Just walking
or sitting
and admiring the bush
or a beach
environment can be restful.
Remember,
a repairing brain needs time.
Accept that you
may suffer fatigue.
Don't fight it
If none of these strategies
work for you,
seek medical advice
and further help.
