Fatigue

Fatigue is different to general tiredness, and it is described as a feeling of exhaustion without any explanation. Fatigue impacts on our ability to function both physically and mentally. It can reduce our ability to concentrate, pay attention and remember things. It can also lead to us being more irritable and lower in mood.

There are four types of energy we use that contribute to fatigue levels:

  • Cognitive energy - thinking skills such as problem-solving, planning and organising.
  • Emotional energy - feelings such as being upset, anxious or excited.
  • Physical energy - walking, dressing and exercising.
  • Social energy - talking, listening and following conversations.

Fatigue and brain injury

Fatigue is one of the most commonly reported effects of brain injury, affecting as many as 70% of survivors.

Reasons why people experience fatigue following a brain injury or stroke include:

  • The brain repairing itself
  • The brain working harder to compensate
  • Difficulty sleeping well
  • Physical difficulties
  • Stress and anxiety

What can I do to help?

2 R’s

  • Rest for a minimum of 30 minutes in the middle of the day with no stimulation.
  • Recognise what triggers your fatigue and learn your limitations.

3 P’s

  • Plan and follow a schedule of activities. Do the most demanding tasks when you are at your best and avoid doing too much.
  • Pace activities breaking them down into manageable amounts and ensuring you take regular breaks.
  • Prioritise the most important tasks and consider any tasks that can be postponed or discarded.

Other factors

  • Eat a balanced diet – 3 meals per day and drink a minimum of 1.2 litres of water daily.
  • Exercise regularly. Begin with gentle exercise and gradually increase your tolerance over time.
  • Sleep - develop a good sleeping pattern with regular times of going to bed and waking in the morning. Avoid caffeinated drinks after 2pm.

ABI Service Fatigue Management Group

You may be invited to attend a Fatigue Management Group.

  • The group covers the information contained in this leaflet in more depth
  • It is run in a safe environment and provides an opportunity for you to meet other people who experience similar problems.
  • The group runs once a week over 5 weeks, with follow-up reviews at 1 and 6 months.

When asked what they liked about attending the group, people gave the following responses:

  • “Being given permission to talk about how we felt”
  • “Giving me more confidence and courage”
  • “Explanation for the reasons why the strategies advised will help”

If you would like this information in another format, please speak to a member of CWP staff or email cwp.info@nhs.net.

May 2021 Version 1
www.cwp.nhs.uk