We might think that the phrase "I was overcome because of my afflictions" might be a literary phrase to say that he was bothered by them. Verse six emphasized the reality of the "overcome." Whatever form it took, Nephi was sufficiently overcome that he required time to receive strength before approaching his brethren. How much time we do not know, nor does it matter greatly. It is the depth of Nephi's feeling for generations unborn which is impressive.