Serious fatigue can manifest itself in many ways. If a person finds that he is tired all day, sometimes for no reason at all, or has trouble getting up in the morning, and depends on caffeine to jolt himself awake, he may suffer from exhaustion. If a person feels run down, stressed, and overwhelmed, or if it is difficult for him to enjoy sex, he may suffer from exhaustion. And if a person finds it difficult to enjoy life and activities that used to give him pleasure, he may be suffering from exhaustion.
Causes of Exhaustion
There are several known roots of exhaustion, including:
- Physical exertion
- Overworking
- Stress
- Over or under stimulation
- Inability to fall or stay asleep
- Depression
- Boredom
- Worry/anxiety
- Jet lag
- Pregnancy
- New baby
- Alcohol or drug use
- Anemia
- Low levels of potassium or sodium in the body
- Virus or bacterial infection
- Medications
- Disease, including auto-immune disorders, eating disorders, Celiac’s disease, cancer, fibromyalgia, thyroid problems, or heart, kidney, or liver disease
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Effects of Exhaustion
Exhaustion truly affects all areas of life. Sufferers may find themselves performing poorly at work, or driving erratically. Their relationships with their spouse, friends or family may suffer. Exhaustion can make one's temper quicker and their tongue sharper. Sufferers might find it hard to listen to people speak, and it may be difficult to concentrate on easy tasks. They may overdo it on caffeine to stay awake only to find they cannot go to sleep, perpetuating the cycle of fatigue. Serious exhaustion can even cause one to feel burnt out and lower their immune system, making it harder to fight common colds or flu.
How to Fight Exhaustion
If one finds that exhaustion is controlling their life, there are a few things one can do. If exhaustion is due to an illness or disease, check with a physician before cutting out any medications or exercising.
Improving nutrition and taking a multivitamin may boost one's energy levels. Getting regular exercise at least a few hours prior to bedtime may also help. Sufferers may want to cut down drinking caffeine, at least past 2 p.m. They should make a relaxing evening routine—turn on soft music, run a hot bath, and sip a hot cup of (decaf) tea or coffee. If one finds thoughts pounding through their head before bedtime, they should make a habit of using a journal to jot down private reflections.
Lastly, if fatigue persists for longer than two weeks and cannot be attributed to something temporary (i.e., a new baby or long hours on the job), then it requires a visit to your health care professional. Sufferers may also find it beneficial to discuss their worries and concerns with a psychologist, counselor, or clergyman.
Overall, serious fatigue affects millions of people everyday, causing problems both at home and on the job. There are several causes of exhaustion, and some ways in which people can alleviate it themselves. When exhaustion controls every aspect of life, it is time to evaluate one's personal situation.
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