Brain Injury: Managing Tiredness - Fighting Fatigue Following a Brain Injury Download PDF, 884KB, PDF What is Fatigue? Fatigue is a feeling of exhaustion, tiredness or the lack of energy. You may experience fatigue as a common side effect after a brain injury. Applying different strategies can help you to cope with fatigue and minimise its disruption to your life, so that you can gradually resume your daily activities. Types of Fatigue: Helpful Tips Pace YourselfPlan your daily schedulePrioritise activities that are essential and meaningfulBreak down activities into smaller tasksTake regular 10-min breaks Maintain Good Sleep HygieneGo to sleep and wake up at the same time everydayMinimise day-time naps. Naps should only be for 20 to 30 mins, and before 4pmAvoid caffeine or alcohol after 3pmExercise regularly. Avoid exercising three hours prior to bedtimeDiscuss the use of sleeping pills with your doctor first. Do not self-medicate (administer medication to yourself without medical supervision) Change Your EnvironmentOrganise your environmentKeep your workspace cleanPlace frequently used items in the same locationUse visual markers/labels/boxes to organise your workspaceHave a fixed workspace or deskReduce distractionsUse external aids (e.g. daily schedule, physical/electronic calendar, post-it notes or digital alarms) Disclaimer: While everyone experiences fatigue differently, please consult your doctor if:These tips do not yield positive changesThe fatigue interferes with your daily activities, work or school to a moderate degreeYou develop low moods or suicidal thoughts/intentionsSigns and Symptoms of Fatigue Low energy, restlessness Unable to concentrate Unable to complete tasks Headache/giddiness when concentrating or after activities