Feeling tired all the time? You are not alone. Research shows that many people feel wiped out -- emotionally, mentally, and physically. However, don't despair. Experts have several recommendations for what you can do besides drinking coffee all day long and taking medication to fall asleep.
It's also important to note that it is not so much how long we sleep (even though medical experts recommend 7-8 hours) but the quality of that slumber. Sleep quality has an enormous effect on your energy levels. If you have a partner that keeps you awake by snoring or tossing too much, Dr. Phillips recommends "kicking" your partner our of bed for seven days so that you can reestablish your sleep patterns.
What can be causing perpetual tiredness? According to Holly Phillips, MD, we don't need just to accept it. In her book The Exhaustion Breakthrough, she discusses hidden causes of fatigue and exhaustion.
Could any of those reasons be why you're tired? Read on for what you can do to get back on track:
It's also important to note that it is not so much how long we sleep (even though medical experts recommend 7-8 hours) but the quality of that slumber. Sleep quality has an enormous effect on your energy levels. If you have a partner that keeps you awake by snoring or tossing too much, Dr. Phillips recommends "kicking" your partner our of bed for seven days so that you can reestablish your sleep patterns.
What can be causing perpetual tiredness? According to Holly Phillips, MD, we don't need just to accept it. In her book The Exhaustion Breakthrough, she discusses hidden causes of fatigue and exhaustion.
1. A lack of energy can be the result of common medical conditions such as anemia, thyroid hormones dysfunction, or gastrointestinal disorders.
People suffering from thyroid disorders may exhibit the following symptoms: feeling like you don’t have the energy to exercise or not exercising on a consistent basis; a heavy or tired head, especially in the afternoon (your head is a very sensitive indicator of thyroid hormone status); and falling asleep as soon as you sit down without a task. Other conditions have similar symptoms that can add to general fatigue or frequent drowsiness.2. What you eat might be making you tired.
Certain types of foods and beverages can make you tired. For example, while coffee is full of antioxidants and other nutrients and while it gives you a quick boost of energy, returns diminish with each additional cup. It becomes a sort of endless cycle.3. If you are already suffering from anxiety or depression, fatigue may be part of your illness.
Depression can be really debilitating and sometimes it can be so severe that it's a struggle to even get out of bed. People who are depressed often lack motivation and have stopped doing their favorite activities like exercising or seeing friends.4. Experiencing chronic stress can make you tired and unable to sleep due to obsessive thoughts that you are not able to get rid off.
Chronic stress has become an epidemic and it can contribute to major illnesses such as heart problems, anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal disorders, and even cancer. Don't underestimate how stress can affect your life and find ways to manage stress more effectively such as adopting a meditation practice and taking time to nurture yourself.5. Certain types of medication can also be the culprit.
These may include: anti-anxiety medicines, antidepressants, high blood pressure medicines, and statin medicines for high cholesterol. Consult with your doctor regarding side effects of medication.Could any of those reasons be why you're tired? Read on for what you can do to get back on track: