Depression Symptoms: Can It Cause Drowsiness?
Depression is a diagnosable mental health condition accompanying multiple symptoms that can adversely impact daily functioning and abilities, and often does. While there are many common depression symptoms, depression can impact each person differently.
Since depression is a mental health condition, many people have the misconception that symptoms might only present mentally or emotionally. This harmful misconception often contributes to the myth that depression symptoms are "all in your head." However, many depression symptoms are physical. Decreased energy levels, changing sleep habits, stress, and anhedonia (difficulty engaging in activities once enjoyed) are all symptoms of depression that may contribute to fatigue.
While many people experience tiredness occasionally, the tiredness associated with depression often presents as long-term or persistent fatigue. When evaluating symptoms, it can help to distinguish between feeling tired and feeling fatigued.
Where tiredness may dissipate with proper rest, fatigue tends to persist regardless of sleep quality. According to research, fatigue is a frequently reported symptom of depression in over 90% of people living with the condition.
A study published by the National Library of Medicine explains that fatigue is one of the most common residual symptoms of partially resolved depression. Fatigue often persists even when a person is receiving adequate treatment for depression. According to recent studies, about 21 million US adults live with depression.
Along with fatigue, other symptoms of depression may include:
Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Feeling irritable or frustrated
Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
Sleeping excessively or experiencing difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
Disruptions in eating habits
Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
Slow thinking, speaking, or body movements
Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-hatred
Difficulty concentrating.
Physical problems, such as back pain or headaches
- Suicidal thoughts
Depression and chronic fatigue syndrome
Determining the root cause of fatigue can often be tricky due to its commonality amongst numerous mental health and medical conditions. Regarding depression and chronic fatigue syndrome, difficulty determining the differences between the two conditions is attributed to several factors.
While depression may not cause chronic fatigue syndrome, someone with chronic fatigue syndrome may experience symptoms of depression. This occurrence can be due to the overall lack of energy the condition creates. Low energy often makes it difficult to find motivation or perform daily tasks, leading to feelings of depression or hopelessness. Additionally, someone with chronic fatigue syndrome may be experiencing certain sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or insomnia. Conditions such as these often exacerbate chronic fatigue syndrome.
Being consistent with sleep and wake times
Incorporating more physical activity, such as daily walks
Spending time outside or in nature
Practicing meditation or relaxation techniques such as deep breathing
Spending time with loved ones or seeking support from a group or faith-based institution
Along with depression and chronic fatigue syndrome, one may be experiencing fatigue for several reasons. The following are other potential causes:
Grief
Sleep disorders or poor sleep habits
Medications
Substance use
An overactive or underactive thyroid
Medical conditions
- Other mental health conditions
Chronic pain
Anemia or iron deficiency
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.
Due to the likelihood of fatigue appearing as a symptom of a multitude of medical disorders, consult your primary care physician if you're unsure of the cause.
Counseling options for you
Living with depression-related fatigue can often be debilitating or challenging. There are several ways to cope that range from improving your sleep habits to seeking treatment from a mental health professional. If you are living with depression symptoms that have persisted for over two weeks, therapy can be an effective form of mental health care.
Research has also proven online therapy to be equally as effective as in-person therapy when it comes to treating the symptoms related to depression, such as fatigue, stress, and hopelessness.
There are many potential reasons why an individual might feel chronically tired. You might first try to rule out medical conditions, as fatigue may accompany illnesses such as anemia, fibromyalgia, and chronic kidney disease. However, if there are no underlying health conditions, an individual may have a mental health condition, such as depression, that causes fatigue and lethargy. A family history of mental illness, stressful life events, trauma, chronic medical conditions, and substance use may increase one's risk of depression.
Can mental illness cause fatigue?
Yes- Medically reviewed studies have shown that mental illness, including bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression, increases the risk of chronic fatigue. Medications taken to treat mental illness may also cause fatigue as a side effect.
Living with mental illness can be exhausting. Society places significant stigma and shame around mental illness that can contribute to one feeling like they must hide themselves and their symptoms from others. However, there are ways to learn to manage mental illness and lead a meaningful life. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of mental illness, seek out the support of a mental health professional who can provide treatment options.
Ongoing stressful circumstances can cause physical and emotional exhaustion. Under prolonged stress, the body generates cortisol, which over time, can damage health. Fatigue is a common symptom for those with anxiety disorders and other types of mental illness.
What are the side effects of exhaustion?
What are the three types of fatigue?
What vitamin deficiency causes fatigue?
A persistent feeling of tiredness may potentially signal a deficiency of vitamin D, vitamin B-12, iron, magnesium, or potassium. A blood test can help identify vitamin deficiency. Discuss persistent fatigue with a healthcare professional, as they can provide further health information and recommend specific supplements.
Why is my energy so low?
How can I boost my energy level?
Making healthy choices can help boost your energy naturally. Medically reviewed articles recommend carving out time for daily exercise. Following a nutritious diet, avoiding smoking, staying hydrated, and limiting alcohol may also significantly impact energy levels. Taking care of your mental health can also be important to relieve stress. If you lead a stressful life, identify coping skills and relaxation techniques to manage stress. Depression and fatigue are often linked, so seeking the support of a mental health professional to help manage depressive symptoms can also be beneficial.
What is a natural energy booster?
What illnesses can cause extreme fatigue?
Feeling tired after sleeping may indicate a sleep disorder such as restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea. Sleep apnea involves a blockage of the upper airway that causes an individual to wake up choking or gasping for air. This condition can cause extreme sleepiness and fatigue during the day. There are two categories of sleep apnea, including obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.
Mental illness, including anxiety and depression, can also cause fatigue after sleeping. If you believe you might be experiencing mental illness symptoms, consult a mental health professional who can help you formulate a treatment plan.
- Previous Article
- Next Article