641: How to manage the exhaustion that can come with anxiety
This week on the Anxiety Slayer podcast we’re discussing a listener question about the exhaustion that can accompany generalized anxiety and what helps when you’re feeling low.
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Notes from this week’s episode:
This week on the Anxiety Slayer Podcast we’re discussing a listener question about the exhaustion that can accompany generalized anxiety.
“How can I feel so anxious, like I could crawl out of my skin, and so tired at the same time?”
Ayurveda teaches that stress and anxiety cause fatigue, and sometimes extreme fatigue.
The reason for this is the overuse, or strain of the mind and emotions, that anxiety causes.
So, when we wonder why we can feel highly anxious and so tired at the same time, that’s why. They’re two sides of the same coin, where we feel restless and tired at the same time.
We might also find, that even though we feel tired, we can’t fall asleep easily.
Unchecked, this feeling of anxiety and tiredness can increase on both sides, and we feel more anxious and more exhausted as time goes on.
Fortunately, there are things we can do to help ourselves, and most of them are simple.
Help begins with understanding what’s happening and making adjustments.
Here are some strategies that may be helpful to get your energy back when anxiety drains your energy.
Get enough rest
Make sure you are getting enough sleep at night. A regular sleep routine helps you get better quality sleep.
If you are struggling to sleep, try taking extra rest when you can by curling up in a soft, warm place and listening to a guided meditation or journey to help your mind relax.
Prioritize self-care
Make self-care a priority in your daily routine. This may include taking breaks when you need them, eating nutritious foods, and engaging in physical activity that you enjoy.
Practice relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm, which can also help manage exhaustion.
Avoid overstimulation
Try to avoid overstimulating activities, such as using electronic devices before bed, as this can interfere with your sleep quality and makes things worse.
Seek professional help
If you are experiencing chronic exhaustion or fatigue that is affecting your daily life, it's important to talk to a mental health professional who can help you develop an individualized treatment plan.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration can cause fatigue and make it harder for your body to manage stress. Drinking enough water can help keep your body functioning properly and improve your energy levels. Hot herbal teas like chamomile, fennel and mint can help with both hydration and anxiety.
Avoid alcohol and drugs
Using alcohol and drugs to manage anxiety can ultimately make fatigue worse. They can interfere with sleep quality and leave you feeling more exhausted the next day.
Take breathing and tapping breaks
Carve out time for regular breaks throughout the day. This can help you recharge and reduce the likelihood of burnout.
Practice positive self-talk
Negative self-talk can contribute to feelings of exhaustion and anxiety. Try to replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations or reminders of your strengths and accomplishments.
Remember that managing anxiety and exhaustion is a process, and it's important to be patient with yourself as you try different strategies. If you are struggling, please reach out for help from your Therapist or healthcare professional.
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