Session 5: Challenging Unhelpful Thoughts
Introduction
Welcome to Session 5 of the ReFresh Online Fatigue Management Program! In today's session, we embark on a journey to reclaim control over your energy by delving into the heart of cognitive change. Mastering the skill of challenging unhelpful thoughts will empower you to reshape perspectives and enhance your overall well-being. Let's explore the transformative power of cognitive empowerment!
Deepen your understanding with our dedicated video segment for Week 5. Visualise the thought-challenging process in action and gain insights into reclaiming control over your energy levels. This video provides practical guidance to accompany the session.
Unveiling Unhelpful Thought Patterns: The Impact on Energy
Explore the intricate connection between unhelpful thought patterns and their profound impact on your energy levels. Recognise how negative self-talk, catastrophic thinking, and overgeneralization contribute to draining your energy. Understanding these patterns is a crucial step toward reshaping your fatigue experience.
The Thought-Emotion-Energy Connection
Uncover the thought-emotion-energy connection and its role in shaping your perspective on fatigue. Negative thoughts trigger emotions that consume your energy. Learn how beliefs about your capabilities influence your motivation to engage in activities, impacting your overall energy levels.
Challenging Unhelpful Thoughts: Your Empowerment Toolbox
Equip yourself with practical tools to challenge unhelpful thoughts and regain control over your energy. Follow these steps:
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Identify: Recognise unhelpful thought patterns during fatigue-related situations.
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Question: Challenge the accuracy of these thoughts, exploring alternative perspectives.
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Reframe: Develop more balanced alternatives based on evidence and positive interpretation.
Fostering Positive Energy Through Thought Empowerment
As you continue this transformative journey, remember that your thoughts hold the key to your energy levels. By challenging unhelpful thought patterns, you foster a positive and energised mindset. This newfound skill empowers you to navigate fatigue with resilience and determination.
Homework:
1. Practising the Thought Challenge Technique
Apply the Thought Challenge Technique to real-life situations throughout the week. Whenever unhelpful thoughts arise, take a moment to identify, question, and reframe them. Notice how this practice empowers you to shift your energy and mindset positively.
Download The Thought Challenge Sheet in either Word or PDF formats. These resources serve as valuable companions to the insights shared during this empowering session. Reach out to Sarah via email if you wish to have hard copies, specifying your preferred font size (standard 12-point or large 16-point).
2. Exercise
There is strong evidence that doing three 30 minute sessions of exercise every week improves fatigue in people with Parkinson’s. Get access to our web page of advice on how to do this safely and well.
Conclusion
As Week 5 concludes, reflect on the power of thought empowerment in reclaiming control over your energy. Your commitment to this program is creating positive ripples in your fatigue management journey. Keep up the excellent work!
Survey
We have a quick Feedback Survey for you to complete once you have viewed the video and completed the homework tasks. The Feedback Survey just asks a few questions about how useful and usable this week's content has been. It will only take a couple of minutes to complete. This will let us improve the relevancy and easy of use of each week's content. Start survey.
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Additional Resources and Support
We understand that managing fatigue in Parkinson's can be a complex journey, and additional support may be beneficial. Here are some trusted resources you can explore for further assistance:
Parkinson's UK Helpline:
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Parkinson's UK is a leading charity offering support and conducting research for Parkinson's disease.
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Helpline: Call their free, confidential helpline at 0808 800 0303 (available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm).
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Email: Reach out via email at hello@parkinsons.org.uk.
MIND - For Better Mental Health:
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MIND is a mental health charity providing valuable information, support, and services.
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Visit their MIND Information and Support Page for a range of guides and resources.
