Nervous exhaustion

Christopher Hobbs

“Also called neurasthenia, or heart yin deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine, this condition is a result of continuous stress, overwork, and overstimulation of the nervous system with caffeine, sugar, and too much thinking without rest.”

Nervous exhaustion, often referred to as “burnout” or “mental fatigue,” can stem from a combination of factors, including:

1. Etiologic Factors:
   • Chronic Stress: Long-term work pressure, family responsibilities, or financial issues.
   • Emotional Strain: Prolonged emotional distress or trauma.
   • Physical Illness: Ongoing physical conditions that require energy and can lead to exhaustion.
   • Sleep Deprivation: Insufficient or poor-quality sleep.
   • Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins and minerals (e.g., B vitamins, magnesium).
   • Overwork: Overexertion without adequate breaks or downtime.
2. What to Look Out For:
   • Physical Symptoms: Fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, dizziness, digestive issues, or frequent illness.
   • Mental and Emotional Symptoms: Irritability, anxiety, mood swings, memory issues, difficulty concentrating.
   • Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from social activities, decreased work performance, or lack of motivation.
   • Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much.

   If these symptoms persist and worsen, or if they interfere with daily functioning, it’s crucial to seek professional help. If physical causes (e.g., underlying health conditions) are suspected, a doctor can perform the necessary tests.