Rise Again Stronger

I have noticed and have experienced firsthand what feels like overload and physical exhaustion while engaging in social interactions and engagements – trying to keep up with and process conversations, facial reactions, background noise, and stimuli. While also trying to formulate responses in social environments – all combined leading to mental and physical exhaustion. I call it your Social Battery , like an iPhone battery that depletes over time. When the battery is exhausted, you’re done and spent. The compounding effects also leading to the feeling of isolation, at times depression and social detachment. From an inner view, the feeling of not being an active or a high energy level participant as you were before the stroke. From an outwardly view, your sense what others think or remembering you before and if they’ll ever see that same person again. In either view, further fueling anxiety and a feeling of isolation.

The strategies to help manage: first being aware this is very common symptom of post stroke fatigue. To put up safeguards to help ensure you’re effectively managing and in the most proactive ways

1. Before a social event to budget or limit your energy output during the day
2. While in the social environment don’t be afraid to take breaks and step away for 5 or 10 minutes to recalibrate or recharge and calm your mind and body
3. As much as possible engage in smaller group discussions, in closer proximity and look for the most comfortable chair with good back support
4. To let others aware of your social battery, to educate and set expectations. Those who love and support you need to be made aware, to help through the process and help reduce anxiety and the stigma you may be feeling ..Don’t take it all alone . The more your loved ones know, the more they can be party to help and understand.
5. As much as you expect others who know you well to pick up on things about you, you can’t always expect them to know exactly what you’re going through
6. In others words don’t hide it but be open about your social battery, the concept of a social battery, like a iPhone. The iPhone analogy is relatable for others to grasp and understand
7. You’re the same person as you were just need to be patient with yourself as your body and brain is recovering and as your social battery expands in processing and memory power over time
8. Remember you’re not alone.
9. Don’t be afraid to say no to joining an event if you feel the social event might be too much to manage and deal with

Take control of your social battery, the consumption is within your control

Rise Again Stronger