Feeling chronically tired at work, but suddenly rejuvenated at home? Struggling to maintain focus on your tasks and craving the moment you can clock out? If this sounds familiar, you may be experiencing work fatigue, a common but often overlooked phenomenon in today’s demanding work culture.
Work fatigue is more than just tiredness after a long day—it’s an ongoing feeling of both mental and physical exhaustion. If this feeling seems to vanish outside your work environment, you might be experiencing work fatigue, being tired at work can affect your productivity, mood, and overall wellbeing. It’s important to understand the changes going on in your life, so let’s dig into some more information about this topic.
What Causes Work Fatigue?
Work fatigue can stem from various sources: long hours, heavy workload, lack of breaks, or high-stress environments. But sometimes, it can be due to less apparent reasons such as a lack of stimulation, feeling unfulfilled, or even conflicts with colleagues. Essentially, any negative aspect of your work that drains your energy can contribute to work fatigue.
Symptoms of Work Fatigue
Aside from constant tiredness at work, other symptoms of work fatigue may include difficulty concentrating, lowered productivity, irritability, headaches, and even feelings of cynicism or detachment towards your job. If you find yourself feeling mentally or physically exhausted at work but recovering quickly once you’re home, it might be time to evaluate your work-life balance.
Combatting Work Fatigue
Work fatigue can feel overwhelming, but there are several ways to manage and reduce it:
1. Prioritise Rest
Rest is essential in combating work fatigue. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep and taking regular breaks throughout your workday. Try to step away from your desk for lunch and utilise short breaks to clear your mind.
2. Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily
If you are feeling tired at work – remember the simple things. We know it’s hard to make sure you’re drinking water and eating nutritious meals when you’re swamped with work. However, dehydration and poor diet can exacerbate feelings of fatigue.
3. Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity can boost your energy levels, reduce stress, and improve your mood. Try to incorporate some form of exercise into your daily routine, even if it’s just a short walk during your break.
4. Address Work-Related Issues
If there’s a specific issue at work causing stress or discontent, try to address it. Whether it’s a difficult task, a challenging coworker, or dissatisfaction with your role, facing these issues head-on can help alleviate the drain on your energy.
5. Seek Professional Help
If work fatigue is significantly impacting your quality of life, you might benefit from professional help. Therapists or psychologists can provide strategies to manage stress and improve work-life balance.
Remember, it’s normal to have off days where you feel tired or unmotivated at work. But if you’re persistently feeling drained only while at work, it’s important not to ignore these feelings. Work fatigue can take a toll on both your mental and physical health, and recognising it is the first step towards improving your wellbeing.
We’re Here to Help
At Chase Lodge Hospital, we have a team of experienced clinical psychologists and therapists who can help you navigate through your work fatigue. Get in touch – let’s progress together.