Fatigue

14% of adults in the United States feel very tired most days. At Resonance Psychiatry, advanced registered nurse practitioner Stephanie Blanshan, PMHNP, FNP, and the team help determine the cause of fatigue and provide treatments that boost your energy. Schedule a telehealth appointment by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is fatigue?

Fatigue is extreme tiredness. While everyone feels tired from time to time, ongoing fatigue can negatively affect your mental health and make it difficult to work or complete everyday tasks. 

Finding the source of fatigue with the help of Resonance Psychiatry can help you overcome extreme tiredness and enhance your quality of life.

What can cause fatigue?

Things that may contribute to chronic fatigue include:

• Depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Stress
• Burnout
• Chronic diseases
• Metabolic disorders 
• Weight challenges
• Poor diet
• Lack of exercise
• Jetlag
• Hormone imbalance
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Eating disorders
• Sleep disorders
• Excess alcohol consumption 
• Drug use
• Some medications
• Chemotherapy 
• Heart, lung, thyroid, or autoimmune conditions 
• Other medical concerns

Physical conditions, mental health disorders, and lifestyle habits can contribute to fatigue. Determining the source can help. 

Which symptoms may indicate fatigue?

Fatigue may present as:

• Extreme tiredness
• Aching
• Lack of desire
• Brain fog
• Trouble concentrating
• Irritability 
• Reduced motivation
• Low energy levels
• Nervousness
• Muscle pain
• Weakness
• Whole-body tiredness
• Stiff shoulders
• Sadness

While depression may lead to fatigue, constant tiredness can also contribute to depression or similar mental health conditions.

How is the cause of fatigue diagnosed?

To determine the cause of fatigue, the experts at Resonance Psychiatry complete a psychiatric evaluation, review your symptoms and medical history, and discuss possible causes.

They may order lab work to screen for: 

• Hormone imbalances 
• Nutrient deficiencies 
• Thyroid disorders 
• Other underlying problems commonly associated with fatigue

How is fatigue treated?

Your customized fatigue treatment plan is based on its underlying cause and may include:

• Medical weight loss
• Dietary supplements
• Hormone therapy
• Psychotherapy
• Medication management
• Diet changes
• Exercise
• Stress-reduction techniques
• Treatment for sleep disorders
• Chronic disease management
• Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and drug use

The Resonance Psychiatry team follows up to ensure your treatment is effective. You might complete counseling sessions weekly or as needed, make healthy lifestyle modifications, adjust your current medication regimen, or undergo lab work periodically. 

It’s helpful to maintain a regular bedtime, stay active, and eat a balanced diet. Minimize stress with yoga, tai chi, deep breathing, meditation, or similar relaxation techniques. 

Resonance Psychiatry can refer you to another specialist if you have a medical problem or need more in-depth diagnostic testing. 

Schedule a virtual fatigue evaluation at Resonance Psychiatry by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.