Finding the Source of Your Fatigue

Content provided by the Health & Wellness Team at GBS Benefits

According to the CDC, about one-third of adults in the United States do not get enough sleep on a regular basis. Lack of sleep leads to fatigue – a lingering tiredness that is constant and limiting – and exhaustion that is unexplained, persistent, and relapsing. The impact is overwhelming, causing individuals who were once enthusiastic to lose their charism and become downbeat and less productive.

Let’s take a further look at fatigue and identify what could be robbing you of a good night’s sleep.

Effects of Fatigue

Here are some symptoms of fatigue to watch out for:

Lack of energy. This is a kind of mental or physical exhaustion that makes it harder to move through daily life. It can impact your ability to work, spend time with your friends or family, and manage daily responsibilities.
Drowsiness. You may feel like you must fight to stay awake, and your tiredness may still be there after you sleep. Excessive daytime sleepiness can lead to falling asleep on the job, while driving, or during other activities.
Difficulty thinking. Also called brain fog, you may have trouble paying attention, remembering things, or focusing on detail-oriented tasks.
Apathy. This refers to a feeling where you lose interest or motivation to do things.

Identify Your Sleep Robbers

There are many reasons why you may be experiencing fatigue. The first step to resolving the issue is identifying any sleep robbers that keep you from sleeping soundly. Once you know the problem, it will be easier to find a solution. Review the following list and note which items may apply to you.

Lifestyle: Lack of a sleep schedule or routine, shortage of exercise, unhealthy diet, and alcohol or drug use. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle helps your body properly recover and calm your mind through sleep.
Mental health: Depression, grief, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, or burnout. These can lead to a racing mind making it difficult to shut down intrusive thoughts.
Medical conditions: The flu, glandular fever, chronic fatigue syndrome, thyroid disorders, heart disease, diabetes, anemia, or vitamin and mineral deficiencies. If you aren’t feeling well, it’s likely that you won’t sleep well. Talk to your doctor for possible solutions.
Medications: Some medicines, such as sedatives or antidepressants, can cause fatigue.
Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can cause fatigue.
Sleep disorders: Insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, or narcolepsy can lead to poor quality and quantity of sleep.
Personal obligations: Providing home care, taking care of children, or having other obligations that prevent adequate rest.
Work hours: Some occupations require work hours that can lead to inadequate time for sleep.

Take a moment to note which of these problems you may be experiencing. Brainstorm solutions with your doctor, family, or friends.