Fatigue - This is one of the most common effects of brain injury. It is the most important symptom to control, as being tired affects everything you do. Even simple actions like dressing or chatting can make you tired.
 

·         Think about when you are most tired. If this is in the afternoon then try and do difficult things in the morning.

·         Spot things that make you tired. Either stop doing them or give yourself more time to do them.

·         Build rest periods into your day.

·         Don't overdo it. Build activities up slowly over time.

·         If going back to work, start with fewer hours.
 

Explain to other people about being tired. Don't push yourself or you may get into a cycle where you do not get enough rest. In the space of a few days you could become completely exhausted and all other symptoms may get worse.

Headway, the brain injury association have a publication entitled 'Managing Fatigue after Brain Injury' - this publication will help people to discover new ways of managing fatigue so that they feel more in control and have greater choice about what they do and how they feel.
 

Things that wouldn't bother you before your injury may anger or irritate you. Perhaps the effects of your injury aggravate or annoy you. This can cause stress to you and those around you so it is important to manage it.

·         Being tired or losing concentration can affect your mood levels so try and reduce these problems.

·         Work out what makes you angry and find alternative ways to deal with the issues.

·         If you feel yourself becoming irritable or angry take time to relax.

·         If you have long-term problems ask your Doctor about referral to a neuropsychologist.