Military training teaches Service Members to prepare for dangerous circumstances they hope never occur. You might keep a “go bag” ready in case of emergencies and have first aid kits at home and in your car in case you need medical support. You might even have a “storm bag” if you live in an area prone to severe weather. These bags and kits are often compact and filled with tools you can use in a moment of need. Yet when dealing with operational fatigue—a potentially dangerous condition—many Service Members don’t prepare with the same diligence. But you can.
Evidence-based strategies are available to help you manage fatigue. Having your own fatigue management kit can help you better manage your fatigue and improve your performance when needed. Your fatigue management kit may vary based on your mission and personal experience. Based on the type of fatigue you’re experiencing, you’ll likely find a tool to help you manage your fatigue, mitigate risk, and increase your mission effectiveness. Pack up your kit and be better prepared for future operations!
Fatigue Management Kit
- □ Fatigue Check card*
- □ Physical fatigue management
- □ Hydration or electrolyte packet tools
- □ Shelf-stable snacks (dried fruits, pretzels, gummies, nuts, etc.)
- □ Collapsible water bottle
- □ Cognitive fatigue management tools
- □ Caffeine gum
- □ Sleep mask
- □ Ear plugs
- □ Strategic Napping card*
- □ Active Recharge card*
- □ Emotional fatigue management tools
- □ Comfort items: stress ball, fidget tool, or textured object for grounding
- □ Mini journal and writing tool
- □ Focused Attention Meditation or Box (Square) Breathing cards*
*Fatigue check, strategic napping, recovery tools, active recharge, meditation, and breathing exercise cards are provided in the PDF below. Print the pages (two-sided), cut them in half, laminate the cards, and add them to your fatigue management kit.
Published on: July 23, 2025
References
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