Do you find yourself reaching for a third cup of coffee to quench your exhaustion? You’re not the only one. It’s easy to dismiss fatigue as “just one of those things” in a world where nothing stops. But when fatigue becomes a constant companion, you need to listen to your body.
Let’s begin with the obvious, something we’ve all experienced. We don’t get enough good sleep. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute suggests adults sleep seven to nine hours per night. Most of us fall short. Stress, screen-time, and poor sleeping habits are usually the culprits that keep us awake. If you have tried everything to improve sleep but still find yourself tossing around, it is time to consult a professional. You might also be at fault if your sleep environment is not conducive to restful sleep. For a good sleep, you need a bedroom that is quiet, dark, and comfortable. Consider using earplugs or an eye mask if your room is too noisy or bright. A cooler room temperature can help you sleep better.
But fatigue isn’t just about sleep. It could be a sign that something more serious is going on. Chronic fatigue that does not improve with rest can be a sign of underlying health issues. Feeling tired can be caused by vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, diabetes, Parkinson’s, or anemia. You should consult a doctor if you feel unrelenting exhaustion despite adequate rest. They can identify any potential health problems and guide you towards appropriate treatment.
Stress is also a major cause of fatigue. When we are stressed, our bodies produce cortisol which can disrupt sleep patterns. Stress can cause hyperarousal which makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Stress can also lead to unhealthy behaviors such as skipping exercise, drinking alcohol or taking long naps. Stress can be managed through yoga, sleep journaling or box breathing. These practices will help you to reduce its impact on sleep and energy.
Your hormones could also be a factor in your fatigue. Hormonal imbalances can cause sleep disturbances and fatigue, especially during menopause or perimenopause. Progesterone can fluctuate, a hormone which helps with sleep. Supplements such as magnesium or ashwagandha may help improve sleep and regulate stress hormones.
Depression is another cause of fatigue. Depression can be detected by feeling down, depressed, or uninterested in the activities you used to enjoy. While blood tests cannot detect depression, your physician can help you get the support and treatment that you need through medication or talk therapy.
In our fast-paced society, fatigue is almost normalized. We are constantly pushing ourselves in order to meet deadlines, reach goals, and maintain our social life. This constant drive can have a negative impact on our mental and emotional health. We often neglect our basic needs like sleep and self care because we are under pressure to succeed. It’s difficult to break the cycle, but the first step is to acknowledge the problem.
Fatigue is not something you have to accept. You can regain your energy by identifying the causes, whether it’s stress, poor sleep, health issues, etc. Prioritize good sleep hygiene, manage your stress, and seek medical advice when necessary. Remember that you are not alone in your battle against fatigue. You’re already on your way to reclaiming energy and vitality by understanding the common causes of fatigue and taking action.
