• The negative effects of stress can be dissipated in many ways exercise, progressive relaxation, visual imagery,
meditation, prayer, talking with others and therapeutic counseling.
• Social service agencies can help with referrals to support groups for yourself and family members.
Rest & Sleep Patterns
• Begin to direct your own activities.
• Set limits on visitors if you need to or have someone else run interference for you when you need to rest and
don't want to be disturbed.
• Sit or lie down often. Short rest periods are better than longer ones.
• Take naps as needed as long as they don't interfere with your normal sleep patterns.
• Adhere to or re-establish bedtime rituals that help you fall asleep, stay asleep and enjoy a good quality of
sleep.
• Sleep-enhancing aids and sleep medications may be helpful at certain times during your illness and treatment.
What Can Be Done The best way to combat fatigue is to treat the underlying cause. Unfortunately, it is not always easy to know what the exact cause is. Many factors may be involved and require treatment, particularly if the fatigue has become chronic. All possible causes must be thoroughly assessed.
