Fatigue is a feeling of constant exhaustion or weakness that can be physical, mental or a combination of both. If you wake up feeling drained, run out of energy to complete your usual daily tasks or find yourself unexpectedly falling asleep, you might be experiencing fatigue.
Fatigued vs. Tired
Fatigue is a symptom of many conditions, including nutritional deficiencies, depression, sleep disorders and COVID-19. Unlike everyday tiredness, fatigue doesn’t resolve itself after you get a full night’s rest. It can also be highly disruptive because it prevents you from having the energy needed to get through each day and do things you enjoy.
Fatigue is not the same as merely being sleepy or needing to rest after a long day of work. This condition involves a bone-deep weariness that’s impossible to shake. Some people with chronic fatigue syndrome also experience frequent disorientation, difficulty concentrating, shortness of breath and weakness in their muscles and limbs.
If it takes you a long time to recover from physical activity or you feel lightheaded when standing up, talk to your doctor. Since fatigue presents as a symptom of so many illnesses, a health screening can help you get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Fatigue and Substance Use
Chronic fatigue is also one of many health issues that accompany substance use disorders. If you drink or use drugs, it’s essential to understand the connection between fatigue and addiction. Though you might think of alcohol and drugs as a way to help you relax, these substances can severely disrupt your sleep cycle, leaving you burdened with physical and mental exhaustion.
The more often you self-medicate with these substances, the more you’ll increase your likelihood of becoming dependent on them. This phenomenon happens when you train your brain to expect the reward of alcohol and drugs. Eventually, it will be hard for you to find pleasure in any other activities.
Dealing With Fatigue in Addiction Recovery
Sleeping problems are among the most prevalent symptoms of early recovery. Depending on your substance of use and how long you abused it, you may experience sleep disturbances such as taking longer to fall asleep, waking up multiple times per night and having extreme fatigue during the day.
Waking up feeling groggy and unfocused is a common problem for people in recovery. After your initial withdrawal and detoxification phase, you can expect some improvement in your sleep patterns. Having a routine that doesn’t involve drinking or drugs will help you learn how to get a full, healthy night of sleep night after night.
Why Come to Hope by the Sea?
Substance-induced fatigue is a health problem you can remedy by seeking treatment. At Hope by the Sea, we are a family-owned addiction and mental health rehab in Southern California. To learn more about our programming and how a personalized approach can benefit you, contact us today.