What is Malaise?

Malaise is a difficult-to-define feeling of discomfort, unease, or sadness. It can manifest as physical and psychological symptoms. Though not well-understood, malaise is often associated with certain illnesses and other health issues.

Symptoms of Malaise

The physical symptoms of malaise can include headache, fatigue, sore muscles, and a lack of energy. Emotionally, malaise can be accompanied by depression, anxiety, lack of motivation, irritability, apathy, and difficulty concentrating.

These symptoms are often easy to overlook as they can come and go throughout the day. They can also influence one another, making them even harder to discern. For instance, malaise-related fatigue can lead to depression and vice versa.

Potential Causes of Malaise

Malaise can be caused by a wide variety of physical, environmental, and psychological factors. Common physical causes of malaise include viral or bacterial infections, allergies, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, and hormonal imbalances. Psychological causes may include stress, trauma, grief, or life changes. Other potential causes include poor nutrition, environmental pollutants, or lack of sleep.

Malaise can also be a symptom of certain illnesses, such as mononucleosis, certain forms of hepatitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and some autoimmune diseases. In this case, the underlying medical issue must be treated to alleviate symptoms of malaise.

How to Cope with Malaise

Malaise can be a difficult thing to cope with, as its symptoms can be hard to pinpoint and the underlying causes may be unknown. Generally, making lifestyle changes to boost physical and mental health can help alleviate malaise symptoms.

This can include reducing stress, exercising regularly, engaging in hobbies, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding toxins such as caffeine and alcohol. Additionally, engaging in activities and connecting with people can help improve mood and outlook.

Finding a mental health provider can also be beneficial in coping with malaise, especially if the root cause is psychological. A qualified therapist can help identify underlying psychological issues and develop strategies to manage and improve overall mental health.