Apathy or Lack of Motivation
Apathy is a lack of goal-directed behavior: a loss or impairment of the power or will to execute what is in mind. There is often difficulty initiating and sustaining purposeful action and a lack of spontaneous action. There is no shortage of power in the muscular system and frequently no lack of desire to reach the result, but there is a problem in translating that intention or willingness into action.
The three components of goal-directed behavior, which are are often lacking in those experiencing apathy or lack of motivation.
Having an idea, setting a goal, and breaking it down into achievable steps.
Initiating, or starting, the first step and staying focused - avoiding distraction.
The drive or desire to complete the action - to be really passionate and concerned about the outcome.
Ways of Coping With Apathy
Recognize the Problem
It is essential to understand the concept of apathy, as it may help avoid putting excess blame on someone with a brain injury.
Lower Your Expectations
Your lifestyle will be different, your brain is different, and it's okay to not accomplish as much as you would have before the accident.
Break Things Down Into Smaller Steps to Make them Less Overwhelming
For example, instead of thinking of a task as "go to the market," which is broad and may be overwhelming. You might think, "what am I going to buy?" "How am I going to get there?" "How will I carry the groceries back?" "Do I even have grocery bags?" "What method of payment will I use?" And that alone can be overwhelming. Instead, If you list out all the steps first, you won't feel overwhelmed. Instead of thinking about having to do all these steps, just think about one step at a time.
I have to get dressed
I have to make a list of everything we need
Based on how heavy all that sounds, I can decide if I need to bring the little cart.
I'm going to need my cellphone, wallet, keys, list, and a grocery bag or two so I'll grab those.
I need to take the cart out and lock the house door
I'll walk to the store and when I arrive, I'll take out my list.
I'll grab each item from the list and cross it off once it's in the cart to be sure I don't miss anything
I'll check out and pay with my credit card.
I'll then walk home and unlock the door
Then I'll bring the groceries upstairs and put them away in their homes
When you break things into baby steps that you focus on one at a time, it's a lot less overwhelming than thinking about the whole thing at one time
Self-Parent Yourself
Withdraw desirable activities if you do not complete the less-fun activities. You can basically use fun activities as a reward for doing the things you don't feel as motivated to do but lead to long-term good outcomes.
Structure Your Day
Try to get into a regular routine as much as possible. The more regular the routine, the less you will have to rely on willpower (which has been lessened since the injury). If left with a completely unstructured day, there is a greater probability that you will accomplish little and experience secondary problems, such as depression, anger, anxiety, or confusion.