Some researchers believe that each setback delays the eventual recovery. The brain needs a string of continuous setback free days to achieve maximum recovery. The more days linked together without setbacks, the better/quicker the recovery.

Once one learns to recognize an impending over-load, and can make changes to avoid the over-load, the ups and downs of the roller coaster starts to smooth out. Then, one can slowly increase the level of stimulation or effort to expose the brain new challenges without setbacks.