Fatigue is widespread in the general population, frequently presented in primary care and increasingly reported in the working population. Because it affects employees’ productivity, ability to focus, and general expenses, fatigue in the workplace has received renewed attention. Though little is known about what causes it, many different physical and psychological disorders can all be indicated by exhaustion signs. One of the main symptoms of many illnesses is fatigue.
Everybody gets tired sometimes
The causes which frequently stand out include staying up late, working long hours, and having an infant who keeps you awake at night. However, prolonged periods of fatigue or weariness are abnormal. One of the causes for individuals to visit their family doctor is unexplained fatigue. Nonetheless, you might want to figure out how you got so fatigued in the first place before you go to the doctor.
Consider any demanding aspects of your life, such as your job or family, any incidents that may have caused your fatigue, and how your lifestyle may be contributing to this. A doctor will examine the following potential reasons for fatigue.
Physical causes
There are various health conditions that can make you feel tired. These include:
- being underweight, overweight or obese
- side effects of medication
- hypothyroidism – an underactive thyroid
- iron deficiency or anaemia
- pregnancy – especially the first twelve weeks
- cancer treatments (like radiotherapy and chemotherapy)
- sleep disturbances including sleep apnoea
Psychological causes
The majority of psychological reasons result in restless nights or insomnia, both of which wear one out during the day. Psychological factors include:
Anxiety
You may have generalized anxiety disorder if you experience continuous, uncontrollable worry. People with this condition frequently experience fatigue in addition to worry and irritability.
Depression
You might have depression if you frequently feel down, drained, and exhausted which can affect your motivation and energy levels.
Emotional shock
A loss of a loved one, being laid off from work, or ending a relationship can leave you feeling worn out.
Stress
Stresses of everyday life can occasionally worry the majority of us. It is important to keep in mind that even happy occasions, like getting married or moving, can be stressful.
Lifestyle causes
We frequently attempt to cram too much into our everyday lives. In an effort to remain on top of things, we might overdo it with caffeine or quick snacks that are high in sugar or fat. The following are the major factors of a fatigued lifestyle:
Alcohol
Too much drinking reduces the quality of your sleep. Follow the recommendation of no more than 14 units per week for both males and females.
Caffeine
This stimulant present in tea, coffee, and soft and energy drinks in excess, can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling tense in addition to fatigued. Decaffeinated tea and coffee are good options to consider.
Daytime naps
You might take a nap during the day if you are feeling tired, which can make it more challenging to get a restful night’s sleep.
Exercise
The amount of activity you do or do not do can impact how exhausted you feel.
Night shifts
Many night employees discover that they fatigue more quickly. If the shifts’ starting times keep shifting, this is more likely to occur.
Although everyone has days when they feel worn out, being fatigued all the time is abnormal. Above we mentioned a few of the many potential causes of persistent exhaustion. It is critical to discuss the reason for your exhaustion with your doctor if it is not clear why you are feeling so tired. Once you determine the underlying reasons for your tiredness, make the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes, or receive the appropriate treatment, your fatigue should typically improve.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Charlot Cauchi is a Gestalt Psychotherapist at Willingness. He has experience working with adult clients with mental health difficulties, anxiety and depression, loss and grief, traumatic experiences, stress, and relational issues.
ReferencesBroddadóttir, E., Flóvenz, S. Ó., Gylfason, H. F., Þormar, Þ., Einarsson, H., Salkovskis, P., & Sigurðsson, J. F. (2021). “I’m So Tired”: Fatigue as a Persistent Physical Symptom among Working People Experiencing Exhaustion Disorder. International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(16), 8657.