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Do you feel exhausted? Here's how to understand and manage fatigue due to stress.
Fatigue
Many of us have felt tired and worn out, especially in a world that always expects us to be ‘on’ and available.
But when does temporary fatigue turn into something more serious like burnout or even depression?
In this article, we will highlight the symptoms, differences and treatment methods for fatigue, all to make the hard part easier.
Symptoms of fatigue
When we talk about symptoms of fatigue, anxiety and tiredness are a given. But it goes beyond that. You may also experience:
- Mood changes and irritability
- Decreased performance and concentration
- Physical symptoms such as headaches and stomach problems
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Temporary tiredness compared to exhaustion
After a long day at work or a stressful period, it is natural to feel tired. But unlike regular tiredness, fatigue and exhaustion due to stress are characterized by an ongoing, prolonged tiredness that does not go away despite rest. It is also more complex, involving anxiety, depression and physical symptoms.
Depression or fatigue?
As symptoms often overlap, it is easy to confuse depression and fatigue. Generally speaking, if fatigue comes with an overwhelming sense of hopelessness, it may be an indicator of depression rather than ‘just’ fatigue.
How to get help?
As a result of more and more people suffering from stress fatigue and related symptoms, there are now several treatment options available. One common approach is CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), a proven method for treating burnout, anxiety, and exhaustion due to stress.
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- Contact a healthcare provider: The first step is to seek professional help for a proper diagnosis.
- Psychologist or therapist: For some, it may be helpful to undergo therapy, either online or in person.
- Medical treatment: In some cases, medication may be necessary, in consultation with a doctor.
Take the first step today
Struggling with fatigue due to stress can be incredibly difficult, but it’s important to remember that help is available. If you or someone you know is showing signs of fatigue or burnout, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
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10 frequently asked questions about fatigue
What is fatigue?
Fatigue is a medical condition that occurs when a person is physically and mentally exhausted for an extended period of time. It is important to seek professional help to diagnose and treat this condition.
How does fatigue differ from burnout?
While fatigue is a medical diagnosis, burnout is more of a psychological term that describes a feeling of hopelessness and lack of commitment to work or life in general. Both require professional evaluation.
What are the symptoms of fatigue?
Common symptoms include extreme exhaustion, reduced work capacity, and emotional lability. If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare provider.
Is fatigue a permanent condition?
No, fatigue is usually not permanent. With proper treatment, which can include medication and therapy, most people can recover fully.
What does treatment for fatigue look like?
Treatment can include medication, such as SSRIs, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be particularly effective.
What are the most common causes of fatigue?
The most common causes include prolonged stress, high work demands and work-life imbalance. It is important to identify and manage these factors to prevent fatigue.
How is fatigue treated?
Treatment may include medication to manage symptoms such as sleep problems and anxiety, and psychotherapy to address the causes of fatigue.
Can fatigue lead to other illnesses?
Yes, if left untreated, fatigue can lead to other medical problems such as cardiovascular disease and immune deficiency. Therefore, seek medical attention if you feel exhausted over a long period of time.
Are there any preventive measures against fatigue?
Yes, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, managing stress effectively and setting limits in the workplace are some ways to prevent fatigue.
Where should I go if I suspect I am suffering from fatigue?
If you experience symptoms of fatigue or burnout, it is recommended that you contact your family doctor or a psychologist for a professional assessment.
Treatment for fatigue
We understand that it can be difficult to know where to start. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the basic steps that are usually part of a therapeutic treatment for fatigue.
Step 1: Assessment and diagnosis
Before anything else, you should get a professional evaluation and diagnosis from a qualified doctor or psychologist. This diagnosis serves as the basis for your treatment plan.
Step 2: Individual treatment plan
Next, your therapist will design an individual treatment plan to suit your specific needs and symptoms. It may include a combination of medication, talk therapy and lifestyle changes.
Step 3: Talk therapy
Talk therapy, which is often part of the treatment, gives you the tools to understand and manage your stressors. It also helps you develop coping strategies.
Step 4: Lifestyle changes
- Exercise: Regular exercise can reduce symptoms of fatigue.
- Diet: A balanced diet can improve your overall well-being.
- Sleep: Sleep is important for recovery and mental focus.
Step 5: Monitoring and adjusting
Even if you find routines and balance, it is important to regularly follow up with your therapist to see how you are doing and possibly adjust your treatment plan.
Step 6: Long-term follow-up
As a result of treatment, you may need to continue with follow-up sessions and possibly medication even after you have recovered, to prevent relapse.
As each person is unique, the treatment plan and recovery time may vary. It is therefore important to have an open dialogue with your therapist about your progress and any concerns.
