Join Allan and Richard today as they discuss how to understand and identify fatigue, in working towards long-term recovery from a brain injury. 

Allan explains how fatigue can easily be confused with feelings of excitement, anxiety, and also new symptoms in those early days after injury. There's no doubt that sleep is integral to anybody's well-being, but Allan highlights its particularly critical role in managing fatigue symptoms, alongside paying attention to early warning signs. 

Other topics include the effect of alcohol, feeling stigmatised in social situations, difficulties planning and travelling, understanding you as an individual, and the supportive role of family and friends. 

"...it's like playing a game of 11 aside football with only 8 players..."

@psychologychartered

In the first episode of Insight Out with Richard and Allan, they talk all things anxiety - what this means to Allan in the context of his injury, his current anxieties, medication... 

As his accident happened at a young age, Allan's experiences of maturing with a brain injury are ones he often reflects back on. Having to adjust to different kinds of support, from inpatient rehabilitation to independent living, this was a critical time for his recovery. 

"...it was like being a new-born baby in a 17-year old's body..."

Topics such as facing judgement from others, social media risks, coping with physical disabilities, and body image are discussed. 

How do you cope being told you might not ever be like you used to be? How do you know what you're recovering towards? Is there such a thing as being 'recovered'?

@psychologychartered 

Welcome to Insight Out with Richard and Allan! This is the place where all things brain injury are discussed - struggles, setbacks, successes, achievements... you name it.

Allan has come a long way since his accident at seventeen years old, and hopes to offer guidance and inspiration to others on their own journey. His reflections can help not only those with a brain injury, but also those who support them in any capacity, as well as anybody who simply wants to learn more. 

Take a listen and please let us know what you think: @psychologychartered | https://psychologychartered.co.uk/get-in-touch/