Been seeing a lot of discussion around Spoon theory, and I want to add what I prefer instead, with my more geeky clients, as an alternative- Spell Slots. (thread) #mentalhealth #dnd

Spoon theory refers to the amount of energy various tasks utilize, from the perspective of chronic illness, disability, etc. that means you have less energy & have to ration it carefully. So if you have 2 spoons today, showering & going shopping leaves you depleted for the day.

It's a good way to determine your energy level and identify how tasks can take a lot out of you. I was recently talking to someone who got an unexpected call from someone who was being super needy, and she said, "That took that spoon I was saving." I later saw her struggling.

In concert with spoon theory, I like to use the idea of spell slots as well for my more geeky clients. The idea here being that you can add quantitative value to the energy, and also reinforcing the importance of a long rest to recharge your spells in your own unique way.

Say you have a level 3 spell slot, 2 level 2 spell slots, 4 level 1 spell slots, and unlimited cantrips. You can plan your day with going to work taking the level 3 slot. The level 2 spell slots are going to self care. Level 1s are going to basic chores. You can plan it out.

And I've found, at least personally, that the idea of running on cantrips is better than saying I have 0 spoons, as very often when I'm exhausted, I can still keep going. But I'm running on fumes, & the output is going to be a fraction of what it needs to be. I need a long rest.

Anyway, hope that's a useful analogy you can use or share with people who could use it. It's definitely helped me when I'm struggling and need a way to quantify my energy levels and communicate it with others in a way that lets them know where I'm at in a more descriptive way.