Can Depression Make You Tired? Mental Health & Physical Symptoms
- For those experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988
- For those experiencing abuse, please contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- For those experiencing substance use, please contact SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Depression is a diagnosable mental health condition accompanying multiple symptoms that can adversely impact daily functioning and abilities, and often does. While there are many common depression symptoms, depression can impact each person differently. A common challenge that people with depression experience is disruptions to sleep, which can cause them to feel tired, experience decreased energy levels, and develop physical health complications.
Can depression make you tired?
The term depression encompasses several mental disorders, including major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. Since depression is a mental health condition, many people have the misconception that symptoms might only present mentally or emotionally. This harmful misconception often contributes to the myth that depression symptoms are "all in your head." However, many depression symptoms are physical. Decreased energy levels, changing sleep habits, stress, and anhedonia (difficulty engaging in activities once enjoyed) are all symptoms of depression that may contribute to fatigue.
While many people experience tiredness occasionally, the tiredness associated with depression often presents as long-term or persistent fatigue. When evaluating symptoms, it can help to distinguish between feeling tired and feeling fatigued.
Where tiredness may dissipate with proper rest, fatigue tends to persist regardless of sleep quality. According to research, depression fatigue is a symptom reported by over 90% of people living with major depressive disorder. Additionally, sleep disturbances and depression have a bidirectional relationship, meaning poor sleep quality can cause or exacerbate depression, and depressive symptoms can make it harder to get good sleep.
A study published by the National Library of Medicine explains that fatigue is one of the most common residual symptoms of partially resolved depression. Fatigue often persists even when a person is receiving adequate treatment for depression. According to recent studies, about 21 million US adults live with depression.
- Along with fatigue, other symptoms of depression may include:
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Feeling irritable or frustrated
- Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
- Sleeping excessively or experiencing difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
- Disruptions in eating habits
- Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
- Slow thinking, speaking, or body movements
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-hatred
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Physical problems, such as back pain or headaches
- Suicidal thoughts
Depression and chronic fatigue syndrome: How physical symptoms overlap
Determining the root cause of fatigue can often be tricky due to its commonality amongst numerous mental health and medical conditions. Chronic fatigue syndrome is an illness characterized by severe tiredness that isn’t caused by an existing medical condition. Regarding depression and chronic fatigue syndrome, difficulty determining the differences between the two conditions is attributed to several factors.
While depression may not cause chronic fatigue syndrome, someone with chronic fatigue syndrome may experience symptoms of depression. This occurrence can be due to the overall lack of energy the condition creates. Low energy often makes it difficult to find motivation or perform daily tasks, leading to feelings of depression or hopelessness. Additionally, someone with chronic fatigue syndrome may be experiencing certain sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia, which is a condition where a person has trouble falling asleep. Conditions such as these often exacerbate chronic fatigue syndrome. Both depression and chronic fatigue syndrome can present with physical symptoms such as muscle pain, headaches, and dizziness, making diagnosis more complex.
- Being consistent with sleep and wake times
- Incorporating more physical activity, such as daily walks
- Spending time outside or in nature
- Practicing meditation or relaxation techniques such as deep breathing
- Spending time with loved ones or seeking support from a group or faith-based institution
The causes of fatigue
Along with depression and chronic fatigue syndrome, one may be experiencing fatigue for several reasons. The following are other potential causes:
- Grief
- Sleep disorders or poor sleep habits
- Medications (e.g., antidepressants)
- Substance use
- An overactive or underactive thyroid
- Medical conditions
- Other mental health conditions
- Chronic pain
- Anemia or iron deficiency
Due to the likelihood of fatigue appearing as a symptom of a multitude of medical disorders, consult your primary care physician if you're unsure of the cause.
Counseling options for mental health and sleep problems
Living with depression-related fatigue can often be debilitating or challenging. There are several ways to cope, ranging from improving your sleep habits to seeking treatment from a mental health professional. Sleep issues, like insomnia, often accompany depression and worsen fatigue. If you are living with depression symptoms that have persisted for over two weeks, therapy can be an effective form of mental health care. In addition to therapy, consulting a physician can help in treating depression and sleep problems. Professionals may assess the severity of the depression symptoms and provide proper medications for it. A physician or medical doctor can also prescribe antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants, to individuals depending on their diagnosis.
Due to the characteristics of depression, reaching out for help can feel like an arduous task. Significant life changes such as job loss, death, and grief may trigger depression, making it harder for depressed people to reach out for help. For this reason, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may serve as a starting point for those who experience depression. Therapy can be a good complementary treatment for depression medications, such as antidepressants. Often, online therapy services can allow you to begin treatment from the comfort of your home at an affordable cost. In addition, you may be able to choose the format of treatment you partake in, whether it's phone, video, or live chat sessions.
Research has also proven online therapy to be equally as effective as in-person therapy when it comes to treating the symptoms related to depression, such as fatigue, stress, and hopelessness. It may also provide strategies to improve sleep.
Why do I feel so tired all the time?
There are many potential reasons why an individual might feel chronically tired. You might first try lab tests like blood or urine tests to rule out medical conditions, as fatigue may accompany illnesses such as anemia, fibromyalgia, and chronic kidney disease. However, if there are no underlying health conditions, an individual may have a mental health condition, such as depression, that causes fatigue and lethargy. A family history of mental illness, stressful life events, trauma, chronic medical conditions, and substance use may increase one's risk of depression.
There is a significant link between depression and fatigue. People with depression often have difficulty with sleep, as depression can be connected to insomnia and hypersomnia. Even after getting adequate sleep, an individual living with mental illness may feel extremely fatigued and have difficulty carrying out daily responsibilities. For individuals dealing with clinical depression, it can be beneficial for them to seek appropriate treatment from a mental health professional such as talk therapy and/or antidepressant medication.
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. If you have thoughts of suicide, help is available. Text or call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Can mental health issues cause fatigue? Can depression make you tired?
Yes, medically reviewed studies have shown that mental illness, including bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression, increases the risk of chronic fatigue. Medications taken to treat mental illness, like antidepressants, may also cause fatigue as a side effect for some people.
Living with mental illness, such as severe depression, can be exhausting. Society places significant stigma and shame around mental illness that can contribute to one feeling like they must hide themselves and their symptoms from others. However, there are ways to learn to manage mental illness and lead a meaningful life. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of mental illness, seek out the support of a mental health professional who can provide treatment options. Warning signs and behavioral changes can be an indicator of underlying mental health concerns. If you’re unsure how to respond to different symptoms of fatigue and severe depression, find support from loved ones and mental health professionals. Licensed mental health providers like psychologists, therapists, and counselors may help you unpack the reasons why you feel sad and restless.
Can stress make you tired?
Ongoing stressful circumstances can cause physical and emotional exhaustion. Under prolonged stress, the body generates cortisol, which, over time, can damage health. Fatigue is a common symptom for those with anxiety disorders and other types of mental illness.
What are the physical symptoms and side effects of chronic fatigue?
Side effects of chronic fatigue include frequent headaches, dizziness, muscle aches and pains, poor concentration, and reduced immune system function. Aside from physical symptoms, chronic fatigue can also affect a person's brain, sleep patterns, appetite, social relationships, and overall functioning. A person may also lose interest in activities they typically enjoy due to low energy levels caused by chronic fatigue.
What are the three types of fatigue?
The three types of fatigue include transient, cumulative, and circadian fatigue. Transient fatigue is acute, brought on by lack of sleep within one or two days; cumulative fatigue occurs after repeated mild sleep restriction over a series of days, and circadian fatigue is reduced performance during nighttime hours.
What vitamin deficiency causes fatigue?
A persistent feeling of tiredness may potentially signal a deficiency of vitamin D, vitamin B-12, iron, magnesium, or potassium. A blood test can help identify vitamin deficiency. Discuss persistent fatigue with a healthcare professional, as they can provide further health information and recommend specific supplements.
Why is my energy so low?
Lifestyle factors may cause low energy levels, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and inconsistent sleep patterns. Low testosterone and sleep apnea are common causes of low energy in men. Mood disorders such as major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders, can also cause chronic fatigue. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of mental illness, seek out the support of a mental health professional who can provide treatment options such as medications for your condition.
How can I boost my energy level?
Making healthy choices can help boost your energy naturally. Medically reviewed articles recommend carving out time for daily exercise. A good example of healthy lifestyle changes includes following a nutritious diet, avoiding smoking, staying hydrated, and limiting alcohol consumption, which can also significantly impact energy levels. Taking care of your mental health can also be important to relieve stress and improve your mood. If you lead a stressful life, identify coping skills and relaxation techniques to manage stress. Depression and fatigue are often linked, so seeking the support of a mental health professional to help manage depressive symptoms can also be beneficial. Depressed individuals may benefit from therapy and antidepressants prescribed by physicians.
What is a natural energy booster that helps with sleep problems?
Exercise is a natural energy booster, sending oxygen-rich blood through your body to your heart, muscles, and brain. Many individuals with mental health conditions find exercise a beneficial coping skill. It can also reduce sleep problems, as exercise makes falling asleep easier. Getting more sunlight exposure and drinking decaffeinated green tea can also boost energy. Avoid drinking alcohol.
What illnesses can cause extreme fatigue?
Illnesses that may cause extreme fatigue include anemia, anxiety disorders, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic kidney disease, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), anxiety and depression, diabetes, fibromyalgia, heart disease, and sleep disorders like sleep apnea, among others. Fatigue can also be caused by mild and/or severe depression. Fatigue, feeling low, restlessness, mood swings, and changes in appetite are among the symptoms of those who experience depression. The condition may also make people feel sad, worthless, and empty. On the other hand, some antidepressants may also affect a person by causing fatigue as a side effect. Nevertheless, it’s essential to consult a doctor if you think you might be experiencing fatigue as a symptom of an underlying medical concern.
Why Am I Still Tired After Sleeping?
Feeling tired after sleeping may indicate a sleep disorder such as restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea. Sleep apnea involves a blockage of the upper airway that causes an individual to wake up choking or gasping for air. This condition can cause extreme sleepiness and fatigue during the day. There are two categories of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.
Mental illness, including anxiety and depression, can also cause fatigue after sleeping. If you believe you might be experiencing mental illness symptoms, consult a mental health professional who can help you formulate a treatment plan. It can also be beneficial to read more research about fatigue and depression and how they can affect you.
Why does my body hurt when I’m tired?
Chronic fatigue syndrome can cause persistent fatigue and weakness that does not improve with sleep. Due to the body's inability to replenish itself with sleep, with this condition, chronic fatigue syndrome may cause muscle and joint pain. Check in with your healthcare provider for more health information if you feel you are experiencing chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms.
Thanks for the feedback!
- Previous Article
- Next Article
- What is Postpartum Depression, And How Do I Cope With Symptoms Of Depression?
- What Is Manic Depression And How Does It Relate To Mental Health?
- Recognizing The Warning Signs Of Depression And Bipolar Disorder
- Clinical Depression Test And Diagnosis: Understanding Mental Health Screening
- What Is Bipolar Depression And How Is This Disorder Treated?