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Understanding Mental Fatigue in 2022

User Profile: comfortableNight4463
comfortableNight4463 September 2nd, 2022

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"“Nobody knows what mental fatigue is, how it is generated, and why we feel it,” says the first author of the study Antonius Wiehler, of Pitié-Salpêtrière University in Paris, France. “It has remained a mystery despite more than a century of scientific research.”

Arguably, we’ve got more to think about than ever. Climate change, insane housing costs, the ongoing risk of COVID-19, political corruption, the threat of war...etc. To make things worse, a new study, published in Cellular Biology, has found that thinking about all of the above (and then some) can make us even more tired, accelerating the path to total mental burnout.

A Closer Look at the Study


Wiehler and his team employed a new technique to measure the diffusion of brain substances with magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The researchers hope the study will help people understand mental fatigue a little better.

What Is Mental Burnout?


“When people are under prolonged stress they can end up feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained and this can eventually lead to a breakdown, mentally and/or physically. This is often referred to as burnout,” says Zishan Khan, MD, a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with Mindpath Health.

“People experiencing burnout often feel helpless when it comes to emotionally being able to deal emotionally with problems in their lives,” he says. “They become overly tired and feel zapped of all energy.”

Avoiding—or Reducing—Mental Burnout

Mental fatigue can build up over time, and prolonged and overwhelming tension isn't healthy for anyone. "Stress can be dangerous and lead to very serious consequences if not properly managed," warns Dr. Khan.

"Proper sleep will greatly help relieve mental fatigue, help recharge your body, and prevent escalation to burnout or a complete breakdown."

Taking frequent breaks during the day is crucial as well, especially when you are taking part in stressful activities.

"Additionally, it can be beneficial to identify what the particular source of stress is so that appropriate steps can be taken to lessen the pressure," Dr. Khan adds.

Finally, Dr. Khan recommends seeking help from a friend, loved one, or a professional if you believe you may be experiencing more serious symptoms of depression and anxiety."

Read the complete article available at Very Well Mind!

Reflection:

What do you do to relieve stress/mental fatigue?

*I spend time with my friends and family. It always helps.*

#Stress #MentalFatigue #Coping #Research


2
User Profile: calmDew1576
calmDew1576 September 2nd, 2022

@comfortableNight4463 Burnout is very common nowadays and it can decrease both productivity and career satisfaction. It is important that the supervisor will do the first steps to diminish this phenomenon through providing motivation and a safe space to employees/students. In this way they can be more productive and happier about their work. Thank you for the post!

1 reply
User Profile: comfortableNight4463
comfortableNight4463 OP September 3rd, 2022

@calmDew1576 This is great! I hope more people adopt this mindset. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

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