Are there days you exclaim, "I'm so tired!" but feel fine physically? Or are there times when you've taken nearly an hour to tally a balance sheet that could have been done in 30 minutes? Are simple tasks getting tough for you? If yes, you could be nearing a condition called the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Here's how you can deal with it.
"Thanks to our fast-paced lives, more and more of us are being affected by fatigue," says Mumbai-based Psychiatrist, Parul Agarwal. "The competition makes us work hard," she explains. As a result, we start getting so tired, that everyday chores seem like a mean task.
Signs to Watch Out for
Dr Vimal Pahuja, Consultant Physician (Internal Medicine), LH Hiranandani Hospital gives you signs you may be suffering from fatigue: •You start taking longer to do simple tasks you would normally finish sooner.
•You have frequent mental shutdowns.
•Everything is like a chore and nothing seems enjoyable.
•You seem to be forgetful.
•You feel low or sad often.
•You have constant joint aches, body pain and insomnia.
•You find it difficult to wake up every morning and go about your chores.
Thyroid or deficiency of Vitamin B12 could also cause fatigue. so, it is a good idea to get a complete checkup done to rule out any deficiencies.
Ways to Deal with Fatigue
"Learn coping strategies and look at every situation realistically. Be rational in your thinking," Agarwal adds. Positive thinking will help you cope with things better in the long run.
"Don't ignore the condition by assuming it to be temporary. It could get worse and lead to mental and physical breakdown," says Dr Pahuja. She suggests a few lifestyle changes to energise yourself.
1) Engage in a Physical Activity
"Break out of the rut; take up a physical activity," she says. Avoid watching television, surfing the net or reading. "These keep the brain active and will tire you out again," Agarwal explains. Go for a trek, swim, run or simply pedal your way around the neighbourhood. A dose of fresh air and sunlight will do wonders for you. It will perk you up and energise you instantly.
2) Pursue a Hobby
"Set aside some time every week to pursue your hobbies," Agarwal says. Take up something you have never tried before like cooking, photography or craft. Learning something new will help you break out of the routine and refresh your mind. 3) Switch Off and Sleep
"Sufficient sleep will recharge you in a jiffy," says Dr Pahuja. Lack of sleep could lead to forgetfulness adding to the distress. So simply switch off your computer, phone, and television and lull yourself into deep sleep. Try some aromatherapy with scented oils like jasmine or lavender. Either add a few drops of these in your bath water or apply some on your temples or soles of your feet. Even better- spend a Sunday under the sheets cuddled with your spouse or partner.
4) Take a Vacation
The best remedy for chronic fatigue is to take a holiday. "Yearly holidays are very important. They give your mind and body time to recoup," explains Dr Pahuja. Explore a new place every year with your friends, family or your partner. Short weekend breaks work well too. Try new things like learning the local language and eating local cuisine.
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