Living with chronic fatigue
Living with chronic fatigue
Problem-solving
Prioritising
Our environment can make a big difference to what we are able to do comfortably. Ask yourself, is everything organised, and easy to clean? Are the things you need easily accessible, with cupboards at the right height? Does anything present a problem, and do you need anything to change?
No one can do everything, especially when you have limited energy. If you start to consider your energy level as your ‘budget,’ you can identify the best ways to spend it. It is easy to fall into a “Pacing is about pattern of using it all up on work, or on the getting everything on mundane. In fact, it is the ‘to-do list’ done, but the aspects that add in a more achievable way. fun and enjoyment This means doing a consistent, to our lives that manageable level of activity help to restore our on most days when energy, Next time you look at the our energy levels are tasks on your list, ask probably ‘average’ yourself: should I do it, (or in-between).” dump it, or delegate it? What could you leave out, and could anything be done by someone else? Remember to keep the aspects that you enjoy doing and that add value to your life.
Equipment is also important, because if certain tasks are more difficult, there might be a gadget that could help. For example, something as simple as a perching stool for the kitchen can make a big difference, especially if you are spending long periods in that space. Using equipment in the right way can save a lot of time and energy. Social services and community occupational therapists can sometimes provide essential items, such as raised toilet seats and bathing aids. Other equipment is usually available to purchase and may often be cheaper than you might expect. Do not forget to check the preloved and charity shop markets as these can be great for bargains. For more information, please visit livingmadeeasy.org.uk
Are you drained or sustained – what charges your battery? Fatigue may affect every area of life, but equally it is the different aspects of our lives that impact upon the level of fatigue that we experience.
Love yourself! Self-compassion is a big part of looking after ourselves. When we have health issues, we often need to allow ourselves to do things a bit differently. Remember that you do not need permission to seek help. We instinctively know what is helpful and what may cause us harm, so in looking at what you are doing on a typical day, think about what helps and what probably does not.
If we consider our energy levels as our ‘battery,’ it is important to understand that how we spend our time can help to either charge it or drain it. Some Often, when we It is aspects of life need to take care important to will help to of ourselves, it know yourself, and sustain our is easy to lack battery, what is normal for compassion, others you. By considering and self-criticise and simply identifying your drainers unwittingly turn drain it. and sustainers you into our own Eating well, worst enemy. can learn how to social activity After all, if we manage them. and getting would never insist a good night’s that our friends or sleep will all help to family keep pushing on if boost energy levels. On they were struggling, why should the other hand, emotional stress, we do it to ourselves? pushing ourselves too hard and the pressures of our working lives can all have the opposite effect. Stress and anxiety will drain our battery and lead to mental fatigue. Remember that you do not have to get physically worn out to become emotionally drained. It is important to know yourself, and what is normal for you. By considering and identifying your drainers and sustainers you can learn how to manage them. Think about what affects you and influences your energy levels, for better or worse. Consider also how you are spending your days, and any adjustments you could make. We all have an individual level of fatigue, so if you notice a sudden change for the worse, ask yourself if there could be a reason, and do not be afraid to go back to your doctor if necessary.
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