Fatigue and Your Physical and Mental Health

You slept for eight hours, you ate breakfast, it's the middle of the day — but you're dragging yourself around and can't get out of first gear. If you constantly feel sluggish or fatigued throughout the day, it could be the result of a number of health issues, but first ask yourself some basic questions: Are you getting enough restful sleep? Eating a proper diet? Managing stress? Getting enough exercise? These lifestyle habits are the building blocks of feeling energized and alert.

1. Sleep well

Many people suffer from poor sleep habits, and better sleep usually starts with a routine. Eliminate screens — television, computers, phones — an hour before bed; their blue light can suppress the sleep hormone melatonin. If a racing mind keeps you awake, keep a journal and write in it before bed to unload those thoughts instead of carrying them to your pillow.

2. Eat a proper diet

Meals high in fat and sugar with little fiber, fast food, and processed food all take a toll on your well-being. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, lean protein, and fats from unrefined whole foods. Carrying healthy snacks with complex carbohydrates and good fats gives you a pick-me-up without the crash of candy or high-sugar treats.

3. Move every day

At least thirty minutes of exercise, every day. Human beings were made to move — exercise improves circulation, and blood carries oxygen to your cells and brain. Modern life involves a lot of sitting, which keeps your legs from efficiently pumping blood back to your heart. If you sit for prolonged periods, take frequent breaks to walk or pace; it will improve your energy.

4. Manage stress

If you're sleeping well, eating well, and exercising, you're already on your way. Beyond that: identify the sources of stress in your life, then keep a stress journal — what caused the stress, how you felt physically and emotionally, how you reacted, and what you did in response.

Then ask whether your coping response was healthy and beneficial or harmful and unproductive. Replace bad habits like procrastinating and bingeing on junk food with good ones: helping others, talking to a friend or mentor, or going for a walk in nature.

When should you see a professional about fatigue?

Fatigue has many causes, and lifestyle changes like these go a long way toward improving energy levels. If you adopt some or all of these strategies and your fatigue improves — great. If your fatigue persists or is unaffected by lifestyle modification, see a healthcare professional.

Through its therapeutic services, Omni can help you generate new energy and maximize your quality of life. Contact us today, share what you're feeling, and we'll look for ways to help.