My Speech Therapist Taught me about Spoon Theory

Spoon Theory helped … a lot.

The Spoon Theory was invented by Christine Miserandino, an award-winning lupus patient advocate and writer. Christine explained how ordinary activities can consume more energy for someone with a chronic condition, forcing them to make difficult choices about how to spend their limited “spoons”. Spoon Theory helps individuals communicate their energy limitations and encourages empathy and understanding from others.

Unlike people with unlimited energy, those with chronic conditions start the day with a finite number of “spoons”. I had 10.

Every task, from making breakfast, socializing and understanding words “costs” a certain number of spoons. Mine used to drop down to one or two.

Once a person uses up all their spoons for the day, they lose energy and (in my case) experience fatigue.

I tried to never lose more than four spoons. That resulted in my relaxing, taking a short walk, or napping.

Christine said there are “Good Days” with more spoons and “Bad Days” with fewer spoons This tangible metaphor allowed her to visualize the immense effort required for seemingly simple tasks.

I found this a strategy of spacing out activities and resting to conserve energy. I also avoided over-exertion. It encouraged me to listen to my body, prioritize my needs, and recognized it was a sign of strength, not weakness.

I loved it. Particularly in the first year after my stroke.

Learn more about Spoon Theory by visiting my My Brain page. Search for the phrase Spoon Theory.