Therapy for fatigue

Therapy for prolonged fatigue

Fatigue can have physical, mental or emotional causes. Therefore, there is no one solution that works for everyone. However, there are therapies that in practice and from research prove to be very helpful in dealing with fatigue symptoms. These include adjusting daily structure, learning to dose better and dealing with limits. Sometimes discussing underlying stress or perfectionism also helps.

Movement, rhythm and recovery

Many people become exhausted due to an irregular pattern of exertion and recovery. Therapy can help break this pattern. In small steps, you work towards more balance: not doing too much at once, but also not avoiding everything. Exercises focusing on relaxation, breathing or light movement can help the body recover.

Effects of appropriate therapy

• Less exhaustion: You learn to distribute energy better throughout the day.
• More grip: Creating structure gives calm and overview.
• Better sleep: Less fretting and more relaxation helps with sleep. For example, consider
  to a different evening ritual, fewer screens or adjustments in diet.
• More confidence: You find that you have an impact on your recovery.

What do studies say?

Several studies show that therapy has effects on both fatigue and functioning. In one large study, 85% of the participants experienced improvement in their symptoms, and 90% were satisfied with the treatment. The approach consisted of discussions looking at daily schedule, recovery times and mental workload. A common treatment method found in studies of this kind is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), but other forms, such as body-oriented therapy or acceptance-focused therapy, also show good results.

For whom is therapy suitable?

Therapy can be helpful for people who have been tired for a long time, with no obvious physical cause. Whether you are young or older, working or not. It's all about motivation and willingness to look at your habits. The important thing is that you take your symptoms seriously and seek help that suits you.

Recovery starts with insight

There is no standard solution for fatigue symptoms, but there is good guidance. By looking together with a therapist at what takes energy and what gives energy, you can build recovery step by step. Therapy provides structure, footing and new insights. And that can be just the push you need.