Feeling tired all the time

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Feeling tired all the time?  Maybe you're feeling burnt out? You're not alone. The way many of us live today, fatigue is a common complaint. But while we often blame demanding schedules and poor work-life balance, the root cause of our exhaustion can sometimes lie deeper...  with high stress levels and poor mental health and emotional wellbeing being the culprits.

why do if feel tired all the time?

Our mental and physical health are intricately linked. When we're struggling mentally, it manifests physically, and fatigue is a prime example. Here's how mental health and stress can drain your energy.

  • Stress overload:  Chronic stress triggers the "fight-or-flight" response, flooding your body with stress hormones like cortisol. This prepares you for immediate action, but prolonged activation disrupts sleep, weakens the immune system, and leaves you feeling depleted.
  • Anxiety:  Constant worry and anxiety can be mentally and emotionally exhausting. Racing thoughts and rumination keep the mind on overdrive, leaving you drained and unable to focus.
  • Depression: Depression is often characterised by a lack of motivation and energy. It can disrupt sleep patterns, making you feel tired even after a full night's rest. Low mood and anhedonia (loss of pleasure) further contribute to fatigue.
  • The cycle of sleep deprivation: Many mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression, can disrupt sleep. This lack of quality sleep creates a vicious cycle, as poor sleep worsens mental health symptoms and fuels fatigue.

According to research by Mental Health UK, a staggering one in four (24%) said they felt ‘unable to manage stress and pressure in the workplace’, with one in five working adults (20%) needing to take time off work due to poor mental health caused by pressure or stress in the past year.

how to fight back and combat exhaustion

If you suspect your feeling of being tired all the time and general fatigue is linked to mental health or stress, here are some steps to take back control of your energy:

  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep. Develop a relaxing bedtime routine and manage stress before bed.
  • Seek support: Talking to a therapist or medical professional can help you identify and manage stress and anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly helpful in addressing these issues and helping to overcome sleep issues.  If you are at all concerned about how you feel, then we would advise you seek medical help to discuss your worries.  For further support, take a look at our referral links page here
  • Mindfulness matters: Practices like meditation or deep breathing can help calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.
  • Embrace movement: Exercise is a powerful stress reliever and can boost energy levels. Even a short walk or gentle yoga routine can make a big difference and help you to overcome feeling tired all the time.
  • Fuel your body right: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide sustained energy. Limit processed foods and sugary drinks. Here's a great article on upgrading your food habits to give you more energy.
  • Connect with others: Social interaction and support are vital for mental wellbeing. Spend time with loved ones, engage in hobbies, and build a strong support network.
tired all the time

you can overcome being tired all the time

If fatigue persists even after lifestyle changes, we would advise that you consult a doctor or mental health professional. They can help identify any underlying conditions and recommend appropriate treatment.

By addressing mental health and stress, you can break free from the cycle of fatigue and reclaim your energy. Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body, and the rewards are a life filled with vitality and wellbeing.

Time To Reshape Your Thinking

 Discover Habits for Health to connect the dots between your sleep, diet, mindset and lifestyle. Divided into 12 easy to follow modules this online programme focuses on small habit upgrades.

FIND OUT MORE 

 

References and further reading

https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-health-issues/sleep/
https://mentalhealth-uk.org/burnout/

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