Explaining what fatigue is like to family and friends

A helpful practical way to explain the challenges of fatigue. I read the post this morning on Facebook, it's good to have it posted on both social media sites, thank you Diana. 

As someone who experienced great fatigue back when I was recovering from my stroke, who didn't have the words or the awareness that it was something I needed to communicate about or that it was adding to my difficulties of day to day life.  

Whatever helps us through!

Absolutely Sue, great to see you in both sites. If you ever want me to post about a specific topic on either site - message me here, by clicking on my profile image.

Diana x

I saw that on Facebook too and thought it was a good explanation. I've found that most people don't truly understand, unless they have experienced similar themselves.  Even a friend with a nursing background, seems impatient with me at times; perhaps because "I look normal" !!

Planning one's days and weeks is crucial...  

Thanks Maree, I thought it was a good way to explain fatigue too.

Did you see Karen's blog about practical ways of dealing with fatigue. If not, here is a link to it.

Let me know what you think

Dx 

Diana, I too have read the spoon theory, only then it was written, many years ago, by someone who had lupus.  I actually shared the story with my partner who doe not believe me when I say I am too tired to do something he wants to do, particularly when just 2 hours ago I was having afternoon tea with a relative, and I think maybe it helped as he has not nagged me about pretending to be too tired because I do not want to do something has suggested.  The main problem being that his suggestions are often to do something in which I have to be physically active.  He cannot understand why the energetic active young woman he met years ago only wants to lie down and maybe watch TV.

Hi all

Thanks for all the useful information. One thing I have found family have a great deal of trouble grasping why for no reason I nod off. My answer to this problem is listening to music (not loud or fast) and some of the classical pieces are ideal.

I feel so much alive and relaxed after even it is only for a half hour.

I think over time the family is coming to grips that Husband, Dad and Poppa does these things, its his way.

Perhaps music may help others to deal with the unseen by others.

A greta way of visually explaining how debilitating the choices we hvae to make can be.  The part re a 'looming cold or infection' really hit home as I had to have a minor procedure 2 weeks ago and it really has depleted some of what I try to keep in store. So much so that I have even missed my weekly art classes. Thanks for sharing :)