Emotional fatigue: strategies to face and overcome it

The emotional fatigue refers to mental exhaustion that is related to prolonged symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression.

We can all feel this extreme emotional exhaustion from time to time, although some people tend to experience it more often, as they are more sensitive or more empathetic. Those who suffer from emotional fatigue feel that they have exhausted all their emotional resources and have nothing left to give to others.

Emotional fatigue: defining the concept

Emotional fatigue occurs in different situations. It is characteristic of some jobs related to assisting other people (doctors, assistants social, psychologists, firefighters, etc.), since the emotional cost of these professions is not always seen rewarded. This type of fatigue can also be linked to affective problems, stemming from difficulty in communicating or adapting to the environment.

In addition, in the work environment, emotional fatigue is a symptom that the Burnout or "burnout syndrome", which affects workers who have reached a very high level of physical and emotional exhaustion.

How does emotional fatigue manifest itself?

Emotional fatigue occurs when an individual has exceeded her ability to withstand prolonged emotional stress. It is common for people who suffer from it to be unaware of their symptoms, as lack of motivation and fatigue emotional, characteristic of this phenomenon, provokes a behavior of avoidance and rejection towards one's own emotions. This type of fatigue manifests itself with physical and psychological symptoms. Here are some of them:

• Low tolerance for stress or stressful situations
• Inattention
• Lack of motivation and disinterest in life
• Physical fatigue or loss of energy
• Depersonalization

Emotional fatigue causes significant problems for the person who suffers, both in their personal well-being and in their interpersonal relationships. These difficulties can cause depressive states as a result of the "lack of control" felt by the emotionally tired person. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the symptoms to avoid further unnecessary suffering. Emotional fatigue can indicate more serious problems (depression, burnout, etc.), so it is important to know the exact cause that causes it in order to act with the intention of tackling the underlying problem.

Ways to cope with emotional fatigue

Emotional fatigue can be treated if symptoms are detected as early as possible. To prevent further consequences, it is necessary to have certain coping skills (positive coping strategies, taking time off, etc.). But first of all, the first step is to recognize emotional fatigue in us and find out what circumstance is causing it.

1. Mindfulness and self-reflection

Much research seems to indicate that the Mindfulness It can be useful for these types of problems, as it helps us better manage our emotions. On some occasions, it can be easy to recognize what things are causing us emotional exhaustion, and on others, we have to dig a little deeper to discover what its symptoms are telling us. The self-reflection can help us find out the triggers of emotional fatigue in us.

In addition, Mindfulness provides tools to disconnect from what produces stress. Being in the present moment, with an attitude of acceptance and compassion towards ourselves, minimizes the impact of emotionally stressful situations, and allows to face these in a positive way situations.

On the other hand, physical exercise brings many benefits on a psychological level, so that habitual practice can cause an escape route for the mind: improves self-esteem and promotes the release of chemicals in the brain related to happiness and well-being. In this sense, a healthy lifestyle, with good sleep hygiene or a healthy diet, is essential to face the day to day in the best possible way, and positively affects our emotional well-being.

2. Psychological therapy to treat emotional fatigue

Emotional fatigue can be remedied by following these tips. Do not forget that, if at any time you are overwhelmed by your symptoms, it is a good idea to discuss the problem with a mental health professional, which will provide you with tools and techniques to solve the situation.