Describing fatigue from depression
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How would you describe any fatigue you have had from depression?
I ask as I'm struggling with fatigue and running out of options for physical causes, leaving me depression as a cause. and comparing my symptoms with other depression sufferers would help me judge my fatigue. I'd describe myself as depressed, but as a result of fatigue and other health challenges rather than vice-versa; sure, I've had depression on-and-off over the past 35 years (I'm now in my late 50s), but this fatigue hit me before my current depression and, looking back, I had some fatigue issues before my first depression.
I describe mine as a mental fatigue, feeling like having lead capes on my shoulders, brain and eyes; they drag my eyes and motivation down, I have to make a big effort to lift the weights to do anything and the weights push me to sitting down again. My body itself doesn't feel fatigued and I can exercise well for my age.
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Hakuna_matata StrivingOn
Posted
jan_39653 StrivingOn
Posted
Fatigue can be a symptom of depression but there can, as you clearly know, be lots of other causes. Have you had blood tests for vit B12, anaemia, thyroid etc? Recently a friend who is treated for thyroid deficiency discovered that her continued fatigue was overcome with a range of supplements including iron. I think this was sheer luck. I also have a friend with ME. Fatigue hits her out of the blue and all she can do is ride it out. The rest of the time, she's fine and active.
Are you on medication for your current depression? That might be a cause, in which case a change in meds might be considered.
When I am at my lowest (severe anxiety and panic combined with depression) I feel exactly as you describe - mental fatigue with no inclination to get up, speak to anyone, eat, wash...but for me, I know it's a symptom of my depression. Once I found the right medication, I could feel the fatigue lifting and I heard myself speaking with animation, feeling like contacting friends and even entertaining th idea of exercise! It sounds to me like you should have a chat with your doctor - you shouldn't need to just put up with it.
StrivingOn jan_39653
Posted
Thanks. My B12, D and thyroid results are poor but within NHS limits. i am also slightly pre-diabetes (6.3 fasting).
I had feelings of sleepiness well before was first depressed so I may have several things mixed up.
My full symptoms and tests are quite lengthy so I'll put them in a thread eventually.
a42352 StrivingOn
Posted
Hello, I think your description is understandable and is very similar to what I experience. I also have neck issues and my shoulder muscles just always seem to be struggling to hold my head up - similar to your "lead capes". I have, for some time, questioned if I am tired from exertion or it's the depression. Depression was my conclusion and also my counselor's. Because of my neck issues, I have been going to physical therapy but it has not helped this problem.
Hopefully, you will get some different responses. Take care.
phyllis11904 StrivingOn
Posted
My fatigue when depressed did feel like something heavy dragging me down. My mind and my body seemed to be trapped in a debilitating darkness. Doing anything or seeing anybody seemed like torture. I'm now in the right meds for me and have my life back. Take care.