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Step 1: Use Multiple Strategies
Like other symptoms of CFS/FM, cognitive problems are best addressed by using a combination of strategies. People in the self-help program often list ten items or more when asked how they fight fog. Common strategies include:
- Staying inside the energy envelope (pacing)
- Maintaining an orderly physical environment
- Doing difficult tasks during the best hours of the day
- Living by a schedule
- Using self-talk for reassurance
Step 2: Focus on These Strategies If Often Feel Confused
If you often feel confused or have trouble concentrating, you may be helped by:
- Reducing clutter to create an orderly environment
- Doing one thing at a time
- Limiting noise and other distractions
- Alternating short work periods with rest breaks
Step 3: Focus on These Strategies If Remembering Is a Problem
If you have trouble remembering to do things or remembering where you put things, you may be helped by:
- Using lists and other reminders
- Doing only one thing at a time
- Limiting noise and other distractions
- Organize your home so everything has its place
A Final Note
Your efforts to control other symptoms will help you control fog. Your success in staying within your energy envelope and in managing stress are likely to reduce your cognitive problems, as well as helping you with other symptoms. And, because the problems associated with fog are found in people who are tired and those who are sleep-deprived, reducing fatigue and getting restorative sleep will help reduce cognitive problems.
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