How Do You Spot The Signs Of Exhaustion?

We often say "I'm exhausted," which usually means that we're tired from our daily work. It is natural to feel fatigued at the end of the day after intense mental or physical work. No rest is enough to make up for the lost energy. Moreover, since the pandemic, we have been struggling with both physical and emotional emptiness that somehow just stays with us nevertheless - some may say this is one of the newest common diseases. Let's see if there's a way to tell if we have spotted the signs of severe exhaustion or different reasons behind our condition.  

What are exhaustion and its syndromes?

Growing up, we get exposed to exhaustion - it has many forms, and it is crucial to distinguish them from one another.  

Physical exhaustion is the most common type: your muscles become sore after any major activity or hard exercise. You may find that your limbs are heavy, which is accompanied by muscle stiffness or decreased muscle strength. As a result, you are unsteady in your movements, and your movement becomes slower. In extreme situations, even trembling is a typical symptom. This type of fatigue disappears within a few days with some rest - usually good sleep and some gentle self-care help.  

In mental exhaustion, the fatigue does not occur on the physical level, but in the unsatisfactory function of concentration, thinking - the impairment of memory is a frequent syndrome as well. Even after a good night's rest, you may experience constant fatigue: you may be drowsy or tired, and even mild, non-permanent sleep disorders may occur. Nervous and emotional exhaustion is also a possible component. Women in business may be more often affected by this type of problem.  

In a high-stress environment, exhaustion can develop into what is known as chronic fatigue syndrome, causing both physical and mental issues. In the case of CFS, severe headaches or even migraines and visual disturbances may occur, accompanied by back pain, digestive problems and circulatory problems, or increased sweating. Nausea and dizziness also become frequent guests. Sudden mood swings occur regularly, followed by irritability and angry outbursts. If left untreated, it can lead to other mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression.  

What can cause exhaustion?

When someone suffers from chronic exhaustion, several reasons can cause it. The most common cause is an inappropriate lifestyle - and as women entrepreneurs, juggling time and tasks related to family and work can lead to severe fatigue. It's a cardinal problem to manage the household, the kids, and our jobs while remaining a kind and nurturing spouse and a fierce, strong woman. As a businesswoman, you have to remind yourself to set boundaries and take care of not only others but also your mental health.  

Another reason is a health problem that has not yet been identified. For example, anemia or iron deficiency in the nervous system can also lead to a lack of energy or decreased concentration.  

How can exhaustion be reduced? Is there any way to get rid of it?    

Changing the lifestyle is a particularly advisable step for businesswomen. It is highly recommended to have a daily routine, or at least have similar tasks at the same times of the day. Eating healthier and drinking enough pure water, exercising, even getting up, and going to bed at a regularly scheduled time make you balanced both physically and mentally. Don't let anything or anyone - including yourself - become a distraction from your daily schedules, especially when you want to take a break from your duties. Although there are days when the small goals are simply unachievable, you should try to reduce any obstacles in your way that might further hinder your progress.  

It is also recommended to visit and consult a doctor to rule out any unnoticed health problems. Checking your condition is a beneficial step - assistance from a healthcare specialist can help you get back in shape in no time.  

Even though it is difficult, managing the level of stress is key. You can't block out stress completely and forget about it because it is a normal reaction. The solution is to maintain control of its level and your reactions to it. Seeking help from professionals and learning more about techniques related to resilience and mindfulness will help your wellbeing.  

As women empowerment takes a big step forward and female leaders take charge, let's not forget to take care of ourselves and truly rest - which is something not for the greater good but simply for our own pleasure.