Mental exhaustion can be one of the most difficult exhaustion to address and overcome. It shows itself differently in different individuals. However, at the core of it all, it can cause a downward spiral in one’s life overall, which then affects relationships, oftentimes workplace, and even the family systems…….Let’s dive in deeper on what mental exhaustion is and how we can combat it.
What can mental exhaustion feel, look like or be?
Mental exhaustion can show itself physically when one suffers from sleep disturbances, recurring headaches, high blood pressure, and even a sense of lowered immunity. It can impair people emotionally, for example, one can feel depressed, anxiety, detached, and even increased irritability and decreased tolerance level.
This is all due to long-term stress, where one tends to feel overwhelmed and emotionally drained, particularly with responsibilities, problems, obstacles and barriers in the here – n – now that seem nearly impossible to overcome. Time can often feel never ending and a situation can be perceived as bigger than it really is.
Read below the 10 ways to reset so you feel less strained by a source “Greatest”.
Schedule relaxation time. We’re all busy, but creating pockets in your day to recharge is critical for decreasing or eliminating exhaustion. Follow what works for you and your personality. We’re all different and may need to recuperate in different ways.
Exercise without screens or distractions. There’s evidence that exercise doesn’t just make you stronger, it also improves your self-control, brain health, and anxiety level. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, split into several 5-minute walks if needed.
Take notes during meetings. Feeling overwhelmed can cause one to experience mental fatigue. Taking notes improves your memory and helps you assume more control over your situation. Try writing by hand rather than typing on your computer as studies show that doing so improves learning, concentration, focus and increased attention spans.
Journal your feelings. Evidence shows journaling could help lower symptoms of depression or anxiety within just a month of writing. Start small — begin by writing for just a few minutes every day.
Go for a walk in nature. Not only are you getting exercise, as mentioned earlier, but it’s been well-documented that spending time around nature may improve mental well-being and cognitive functioning.
Listen to instrumental music. This is a great chance to break out your earbuds and jam out to some classical music. Studies have shown that listening to non-verbal tunes can both help with relaxation and improve learning when studying.
Establish your locus of control. Ask yourself: What factors are within your control? Life is hectic, and can leave you feeling overwhelmed and powerless. Take a lesson from the Stoics and realistically examine what you can and cannot control in life. Make a list and ground yourself in what you do have control over.
Try to sleep more. Definitely easier said than done, but it’s worth working on your sleep habits. Insomnia and unrestful sleep can result in a higher likelihood of burnout down the line. If you’re having trouble snoozing, try changing up your sleep environment and bed-time routine, getting into a routine and regiment sleep for increased sleep hygiene.
Consider a medication change. The wrong medication can have negative effects on your mental well-being. If you’re trying out a new prescription and don’t feel better after 12 weeks, or your symptoms get worse, it might be a good idea to consult with your physician or prescribing doctor.
Visit a professional. If you’re still feeling lost, it likely wouldn’t hurt to talk with a therapist. Processing your inner feelings could be a cathartic experience, and it may help to see your thoughts from an outside perspective.
Mental exhaustion is something serious that needs to be talked about, addressed, and fixed. We must all know how to pinpoint it and improve upon it. In doing so, we can be more productive, joyful, and live a more fulfilling life.
Do you suffer from mental exhaustion? What are some of your symptoms? Let me know in the comments below.
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