Emotional fatigue syndrome (EFS) is a mental health disorder that may occur when a person is under so much stress or anxiety that his or her nervous system is impacted. People suffering from emotional fatigue syndrome can experience physical problems such as constipation, exhaustion and muscle spasms, as well as psychiatric problems including deep depression, panic attacks and loss of coping skills. There are several treatments available for EFS, including healthy eating, learning relaxation techniques and taking vitamins.
There is no one treatment plan set in stone for emotional fatigue syndrome, so it is important for a person suffering from this disorder to work with a mental health professional to develop the best treatment plan for his or her specific situation. One option a medical professional may recommend to a patient is healthier eating. Eating sugary sweets and a lot of processed food will only worsen some of the symptoms of EFS, including depression and tiredness. Patients should try to eat a large variety of vegetables, grains and fruit. Caffeine also should be avoided by people suffering from emotional fatigue syndrome, because caffeine can stimulate the nervous system and increase the chance of anxiety attacks.
Working on methods of relaxation is another important part of treating emotional fatigue syndrome. A person can achieve relaxation by trying many methods, including deep breathing, brisk walking and talking about his or her problems regularly. It is important for a person to find ways of dealing with the everyday stresses that are taking their toll if he or she is to overcome emotional fatigue. Some causes of stress, such as an exam, may have a beginning and an end, while other causes of stress — such as the loss of a loved one or symptoms of a chronic illness — may be an ongoing battle. A person can talk with a counselor to identify his or her stress triggers and find the best ways to achieve a clear mind and relaxation.
Vitamins also can be beneficial for emotional fatigue syndrome patients. Proper vitamin intake can help mental health issues and physical problems. Popular vitamins that some emotional fatigue syndrome patients are encouraged to take include vitamin C, multivitamins, vitamin B and magnesium. Patients should always check with their doctors before beginning a new vitamin regime to make sure that none of the vitamins will interfere with any current prescription drugs they may currently be taking.
