Fatigue: What Causes Us to Feel Drained and Exhausted?

Fatigue is a common experience that many of us go through. We all feel exhausted and drained at times, and it can vary in intensity, from a mild feeling of being slightly tired, to a debilitating state of constant exhaustion. But what causes it? And is there something that we can do to help combat fatigue?

Neurobiological Causes

At the most fundamental level, fatigue is caused by varying amounts of dopamine, serotonin and other neurotransmitters, hormones and protein molecules in our body. These biological markers fluctuate depending on a number of factors, from our mental and physical outlook on any given day, to the amount of sleep we are getting. A lack of sleep can significantly reduce serotonin and dopamine levels, leaving us feeling drained and exhausted.

Psychological causes

Our psychological state of mind can have a big impact on how fatigued we feel. We can become fatigued from a wish to please others and feelings of guilt over events that we have no control over. This can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety, which then result in fatigue. Other psychological causes such as depression and even boredom can also play a role in the sensation of fatigue.

How to Combat Fatigue

If you are feeling fatigued, it is important to work out the cause in order to treat it effectively. There are several things that you can do to reduce fatigue:

• Get plenty of rest and relaxation. Make sure to get enough quality sleep, and be sure to take regular breaks during the day.

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

• Exercise regularly. Exercise can help to reduce stress, improve mood, and help to increase natural energy levels.

• Look for ways to reduce stress. This could include finding ways to manage your time better, taking regular breaks, and prioritizing tasks.

• Practice relaxation techniques. Regularly practice some form of relaxation, such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises.

• Get professional help if necessary. If you feel that your fatigue is due to a psychological cause, such as depression or stress, it is important to seek support from a qualified mental health professional.

Overall, fatigue is a very common complaint that can affect us in different ways. It is important to try and identify the root cause of the fatigue in order to treat it effectively. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as getting adequate sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and finding ways to reduce stress, can all help to reduce the effects of fatigue.