Are you feeling tired and run down all the time? You’re not alone. Fatigue is one of the most common complaints in today’s hyper-connected, always on world. Lack of sleep is a habitual problem, leaving many of us feeling constantly tired and worn out.
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to know whether constant tiredness is just a natural result of living a fast-paced life or whether it is a sign of something more serious, like depression. Constant fatigue can be one of the early warning signs of depression, so it’s important to recognize the difference between normal tiredness and something more.
At Inland Empire TMS, we see patients all the time who are dealing with persistent fatigue. We know how frustrating and debilitating it can be, especially when it starts interfering with daily life, such as work, school, or family relationships. Let’s take a look at the differences between normal tiredness and fatigue linked to depression, and see how innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may provide relief.
The Link Between Fatigue and Depression
How prevalent is fatigue? It is surprisingly common. Fatigue is one of the top five complaints patients share with their primary care doctors. Studies show that 20% of adults experience general fatigue and 10% suffer from chronic fatigue.
While feeling tired after a long day or a busy week is normal, persistent exhaustion without an identifiable cause may indicate an underlying mental health condition, such as depression.
Is It Normal Fatigue or Depression? Key Signs to Watch For
Here are some of the differences to look out for to determine if your fatigue is normal or may be due to depression:
- Look for Identifiable Causes
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- Normal fatigue is typically caused by lifestyle factors, such as lack of sleep, overexertion, stress, or an inconsistent schedule (alternating day shifts and night shifts at work, for example). Once the underlying issues are addressed or mitigated, energy levels usually improve.
- Fatigue from depression often occurs without an obvious cause and persists even after rest. It may be accompanied by other symptoms like feeling down, loss of interest in activities, or difficulty concentrating.
- Accompanying Symptoms Can be a Clue
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- Normal fatigue is usually an isolated issue. You may feel sluggish but are still able to function in daily life.
- Depression-related fatigue is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as sadness, loss of motivation, changes in appetite, and difficulty focusing. If you notice these or similar symptoms along with fatigue, it could indicate depression.
- Extent of Impact on Daily Life
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- Normal fatigue may temporarily reduce your energy levels but doesn’t significantly impair daily functioning.
- Depression can make even basic tasks—like getting out of bed, working, or maintaining relationships—feel impossible. Everything in life feels much harder to accomplish.
When to See a Psychiatrist For Fatigue
If you’ve been experiencing persistent fatigue alongside other symptoms of depression for more than a few weeks, it’s time to see a psychiatrist for help. A psychiatrist, such as Dr. Sandra Cox at Inland Empire TMS in Murrieta, can help determine whether your fatigue is related to depression and can develop a personalized treatment plan that treats both fatigue and depression.
How TMS Can Help with Depression and Fatigue
One of the most promising treatments for depression-related fatigue is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). TMS is a scientifically proven, FDA-approved therapy that stimulates specific areas of the brain to overcome depression, fatigue, and motivation issues.
TMS is unique in its ability to target specific brain areas responsible for mood and reward. Here’s how TMS can help with depression and fatigue:
- Restores Energy Levels: By targeting the brain regions linked to depression and fatigue, TMS can help improve both mood and energy levels.
- Non-Medication Approach: Unlike antidepressants, which may have side effects like drowsiness or fatigue, TMS is a drug-free option. TMS helps restore energy levels and doesn’t produce the sluggish or brain fog feeling associated with antidepressant medication.
- Long-Term Benefits: Many patients experience lasting relief from depressive symptoms and report feeling more energized long after TMS treatment has concluded.
Take the Next Step Toward Feeling Better
If you’re struggling with persistent fatigue and wondering if it may be due to depression, take the next step and consult with a psychiatrist at Inland Empire TMS. We will conduct a full mental health evaluation, including an EEG brain scan, to determine the root cause of your fatigue.
After your evaluation and diagnosis, we use cutting-edge treatments, such as TMS, to help restore your energy, reduce or eliminate your depression symptoms, and improve your quality of life.
Schedule a consultation at Inland Empire TMS today to learn more about your treatment options and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again. We are located in Murrieta, California with easy access from Temecula, Menifee, and Wildomar. We see patients from all over Riverside County and beyond due to the high quality patient service we provide. Give us a call today at (951) 228-3743 to schedule your appointment.
