Mental health is very three-dimensional. Many see it as solely in the mind and isolated to that part of our body. In truth, our mental state affects our overall well-being.

Things like mental trauma often manifest in physical ways as well. It’s not an uncommon sight to see someone who has gone through some trauma sitting or lying in bed, dazed by the anxious energy they feel.

It’s a tough place to be mentally and physically. The good news, though, is that there is an explanation for why you might feel that way and things you can do to make yourself feel better and happier.

Why Do You Feel So Exhausted?

The human brain can produce fifty percent more energy than the body can handle. There’s a natural inequality, and your brain can overwhelm your body. That imbalance usually occurs when a person is going through a stressful or traumatic period, and it can lead to fatigue. The extended after effects of trauma can reduce your capacity to handle stress, leading to malaise and apathy as well as feeling utterly drained.

Hormones are another thing that can cause physical exhaustion. When we feel stressed, our body releases cortisol, the stress hormone, to help desensitize and give us a quick boost. When your levels of this hormone are too high, it can cause memory loss, fatigue, and lowered serotonin levels. Chronic stress can cause something called Adrenal Fatigue, which some therapists believe is basically PTSD’s effects on the physical body.

How Can You Prevent Physical Exhaustion?

Now that you know the root of the issue, here are some things you can do to prevent trauma-related burnout:

1. Meditate

Meditation is one of those things that you either love or hate. Many individuals swear by it, and others hate it. If you’ve never meditated before, though, and struggle with mental and physical burnout, you should at least give it a try.

There are many techniques and strands of mediation to try so you can personalize it to your liking.

Meditation can take many forms, not just sitting in lotus position chanting “OM.” There’s mindful working meditation, intensely focusing on the task at hand, and guided meditation through a podcast or app. It also doesn’t have to be long. Just 10-15 minutes a day can make a huge difference. Try these quick meditation techniques at work or at home.

The relaxation response that meditation brings can help lower the heart rate, improve breathing, and regulate blood pressure. It can also help create a sense of calm and peace, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Furthermore, there’s evidence that people who meditate sleep better and longer than people who don’t.

2. Try Exercising

Even though it might not seem like it, exercise helps reduce physical burnout and exhaustion. Of course, when you’re exercising, it can be physically taxing. The main benefits of exercise come after. When I had Covid a few months ago, my exercise regime took a backseat during my six-week recovery. Since, it’s been difficult to get back into it, and I can tell the difference in my mood, stress tolerance, and the way I feel about my body.

Physical activity can help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. It can also enhance self-esteem, improve mood, and support cognitive function.

Like mediation, there are many different branches of exercise to choose from. Some examples are yoga, pilates, and weightlifting. Dance! A kitchen dance party can bring so much joy, or take up my bliss: tap dancing! I even went roller skating for the first time in decades, and it not only brought physical activity, it also brought laugher, a natural stress reliever.

The main thing is selecting one that you enjoy and benefit from the most.

3. Talk to A Therapist

If you aren’t already, talking to a trained professional can help you understand your trauma better. I recommend a therapist for everyone, but it’s essential if you’re struggling with your mental health or a psychiatric injury. Dealing with mental illness and trauma alone can be taxing, and therapy provides companionship where you can feel safe and understood.

There are also many different approaches you can use for treatment. This allows you to find the best one for you and get the best results possible.

Closing Thoughts

Though they can seem worlds apart, your brain and body are more connected than you think. The health of one directly impacts the health of the other.

We all know to take care of our physical health, but dealing with mental trauma and keeping your mind healthy is also necessary for a healthy, happy life. Good luck!

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