Depression Tiredness- What Is It?

Hey, Psych2Goers! Before we get started, this is a disclaimer that this article isn’t meant to diagnose, treat, or cure anyone. It is our best take on describing a complicated, personal mental illness, not a comprehensive analysis. It is for informative purposes only, so if you or someone you know may be struggling, we urge you to seek professional help from a therapist or another trusted professional.    

Do you struggle with depression? If so, have you ever heard of depression tiredness? Chances are you’ve experienced it but likely don’t know what it’s called or how to describe it. Depression tiredness is being mentally exhausted from trying to fight off all the negative thoughts that can make you feel worthless, meaningless, or unimportant. It’s so much more than just feeling tired and can affect your life in many ways. From your lifestyle to how you interact with others, sometimes it feels as if depression is inescapable. To help put these complex feelings into words, here are 4 ways depression tiredness can manifest.  

1. Being so physically and mentally drained “small things” can feel impossible  

Has getting out of bed ever seemed like a battle within itself? If you’ve never experienced depression, this may sound hard-to-believe, but it’s a real, valid struggle. Someone with depression has to deal with negative self-thoughts and questions like, “What’s the point?” all the time. This can wear them down, and as time goes on, seemingly small things like getting out of bed or chores can be daunting. What most people don’t understand is that depression tiredness isn’t laziness or procrastinating; rather, it’s emotional and physical burnout on a deeper level. So, if you know someone struggling with this, try to remain patient and empathetic!  

2. Being exhausted from existing but not truly being able to live  

Have you ever thought about the difference between existing and living before? In short, existing is the state of being alive often by doing the bare necessities whereas living means to enjoy and savor life. This may seem like a small distinction, but it’s important to understand when it comes to depression tiredness. Many people with it tend to exist rather than live, which can be mentally and physically draining. It’s not that they do not want to enjoy life; rather, it can feel impossible to. With this in mind, try to remember that depression tiredness can weigh someone down all the time. This means it’s important to remain understanding and offer support when you can!  

3. Feeling tired from having to put up a front

Those of you with depression, do you ever feel as if you constantly have to fake your smile and pretend to be happy? If so, you know exactly how exhausting it can be. With the fear of “Bringing the mood down,” lingering at the back of your mind, it may feel as if you’re putting up a front whenever you go out. This can wear you down, and eventually, you could start avoiding going out altogether. Coping with this depends on each unique person, but a good thing to remember is that it’s not your fault. You don’t have to pretend to be happy all the time, and the people who really care about you understand that. Try not to be afraid and ask for help when things become difficult.  

4. Being drained from not enjoying things you used to  

Did you used to have a hobby you really enjoyed but now just can’t get back into? This describes what happens to a lot of people with depression tiredness. As they spiral further into negative thought cycles, hobbies such as drawing, playing an instrument, or reading can become draining and unenjoyable. It’s not that they’re bored of them; rather, it goes deeper to not gaining pleasure from life in general. If this describes you, you don’t have to feel bad for being “Lazy,” or, “Unproductive.” Take the time to heal and seek professional help, and when you’re ready, your hobbies will still be there for you.  

The bottom line is that depression tiredness is a real thing. Depression is much like a weight that follows someone around no matter where they go. So, it’s only natural someone would get exhausted carrying that burden alone. This is why reaching out to create a support system of loving friends, family, and professionals is so important. No one should do everything alone, so try not to be afraid of reaching out!  

Do you struggle with depression tiredness? If so, do you think this article will help you understand and explain it? Is there anything else you’d like to add related to the topic? Feel free to leave a comment down below with your thoughts, suggestions, or experiences!  

References

• Blatt, S. J. (2004). Experiences of depression: Theoretical, clinical, and Research Perspectives. American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/10749-000
• Kendler, K. (1987, May 1). Symptoms of Anxiety and Symptoms of Depression. Archives of General Psychiatry. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/article-abstract/494048.
• Kanter, J. W., Busch, A. M., Weeks, C. E., & Landes, S. J. (2017, June 1). The Nature of Clinical Depression: Symptoms, Syndromes, and Behavior Analysis. Perspectives on Behavior Science. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF03392158.