Coping With Fatigue Caused by Antidepressants

Fatigue is a common side effect of antidepressant medications. It can be a frustrating and debilitating symptom, but there are things you can do to manage it.

Strategies for Managing Fatigue Caused by Antidepressants

• Talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication that is less likely to cause fatigue.

• Get regular exercise. Exercise can help improve your energy levels and mood.

• Get enough sleep. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol. These substances can worsen fatigue.

• Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet will help you feel better overall and may also help to reduce fatigue.

• Take breaks. If you're feeling tired, take a break from your activities and rest.

• Delegate tasks. If you have too much on your plate, don't be afraid to delegate tasks to others.

• Join a support group. Talking to others who are going through the same thing can be a helpful way to cope with fatigue.

• Be patient. It may take some time for your body to adjust to the medication and for the fatigue to subside.

Additional Tips for Managing Fatigue

• Use a light therapy lamp. Light therapy can help to improve mood and energy levels.

• Take a vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to fatigue.

• Try relaxation techniques. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing, can help to reduce stress and improve sleep.

• Get a massage. A massage can help to relax your body and mind and improve your energy levels.

• Consider acupuncture. Acupuncture may help to relieve fatigue.

• Talk to a therapist. A therapist can help you to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with fatigue.

When to See a Doctor

See your doctor if:

• Your fatigue is severe or does not improve after a few weeks.

• You have other side effects from your medication, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

• You are having difficulty functioning in your daily life because of fatigue.