Navigating Brain Fog and Low Energy During TBI Recovery: Strategies That Help
- jordanswellness
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
Recovering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can feel like a never-ending journey. One of the most persistent challenges in TBI recovery is brain fog—those moments when your mind feels cloudy, sluggish, or simply "stuck." This can lead to frustration, especially when you're trying to regain mental clarity and energy. In my own healing journey, I’ve tried a multitude of strategies to combat brain fog and low energy, and today I want to share what’s worked for me. These strategies aren’t about quick fixes, but rather long-term solutions that help support the brain’s healing process in a sustainable way.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is based on my personal experience and research regarding brain injury and recovery. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding your health or treatment.
1. Supplements for Brain Health
Over time, I’ve found that brain-boosting supplements have played a significant role in clearing the fog and increasing mental energy. The brain is a complex organ that requires specific nutrients for healing, so adding certain supplements can support this process.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom: This supplement is known for its neuro-regenerative properties and has helped with memory, focus, and clarity. It’s been shown to promote the growth of brain cells, which is especially important for TBI recovery.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats support cognitive function and mood regulation. They’ve been shown to reduce inflammation and protect against further brain damage.
Vitamin D & B Complex: Both vitamins play a crucial role in brain function and mood regulation. Vitamin D helps support the immune system, while B vitamins are essential for energy production and cognitive health.
Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb has been great for reducing stress and anxiety, which can sometimes amplify brain fog. When you’re in recovery, managing stress is essential for improving mental clarity.
If you want to dive deeper into the world of supplements for TBI recovery, I’ve written a couple of blog posts that detail my experiences and the specific supplements I found helpful:
2. Cognitive Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy
When it comes to recovering from a TBI, it's not just about resting the brain—it’s also about actively rewiring it. Working with a Neuro-PT (Neuro Physical Therapist) and Neuro-Optometrist has been key to rebuilding my cognitive function. These specialists help retrain the brain and eyes to work together, which can have a dramatic impact on mental clarity.
Neuro-PT helped me regain physical strength while focusing on brain-specific exercises that improve cognitive function. Meanwhile, working with a Neuro-Optometrist addressed my vision problems, such as difficulty with focus and tracking, which in turn helped improve my concentration and reduce mental fatigue.
If you’re interested in learning more about how neuro-therapy and vision therapy can support your healing process, check out these blog posts:
3. Nutrition and Hydration
Sometimes the simplest changes can make a huge difference. For me, nutrition and hydration have been game-changers. I focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that support brain health, such as:
Leafy greens and colorful vegetables
Lean proteins
Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nuts)
Whole grains
Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day has helped keep my energy levels steady. I also make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day because dehydration can increase brain fog and fatigue.
4. Rest and Sleep
While this one may seem obvious, rest is truly one of the most important aspects of healing from a TBI. The brain needs time to repair itself, and sleep is when this process happens most effectively. If you're struggling with sleep, it's crucial to make it a priority in your recovery.
In addition to sleep, I also recommend Craniosacral Therapy (CST), which helped me manage headaches and improve my quality of rest. CST works by relieving tension in the cranial bones and nervous system, which supports overall healing. It’s been a huge benefit for calming the nervous system and promoting better sleep.
You can read more about how CST helped me in my recovery here:
5. Avoid Quick Fixes
Lastly, while some might turn to quick fixes like Adderall or microdosing, I’ve been cautious about these approaches. While they may seem to offer immediate relief from brain fog, they don’t address the root causes of TBI symptoms. In my experience, focusing on natural, holistic therapies and lifestyle changes has been more effective in the long run. Always consult with your doctor before trying any treatments or supplements, especially those that are experimental or unregulated.
Healing from a TBI takes time, patience, and a multifaceted approach. There are no shortcuts, but the small, consistent steps toward recovery can lead to significant improvements in brain function, energy, and clarity. I hope that some of the strategies I’ve shared here help you find your own path to healing.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Keep advocating for yourself, exploring different therapies, and taking care of your mind and body. Healing may be a marathon, not a sprint, but with perseverance, it is possible.
If you have any questions or want to connect, feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to support others on their TBI healing journey.
This blog post shares strategies for tackling brain fog and low energy during TBI recovery, providing tips, personal experiences, and helpful resources for anyone struggling with similar symptoms. Feel free to check out the linked blog posts for more insights on supplements, therapy, and lifestyle changes that helped me along the way.
All my light. All my love.
Namaste,
Jordan
My Gear:
Comments