The Hidden Impact: How Exhaustion from Holding It All In is Affecting You
- Pammy Gaskin
- Feb 21
- 3 min read
Exhaustion is a common struggle, particularly for women who balance many roles in their lives. This fatigue goes beyond just feeling tired; it includes mental, emotional, and social exhaustion. Women often prioritise everyone else's needs, telling themselves they will rest later. Unfortunately, “later” becomes an unreachable goal. This ongoing cycle can lead to significant health issues. I, Myself, while managing active twin toddlers, a demanding job as a heart failure specialist nurse, and pursuing my master’s, eventually faced an autoimmune disorder due to my tireless efforts.
Understanding the Different Types of Exhaustion
Recognising various types of exhaustion is vital for addressing underlying causes rather than simply alleviating symptoms.
Physical Exhaustion
Physical exhaustion results from more than just insufficient sleep. It manifests from the burden of daily responsibilities—everything from household chores to caring for children. Studies show that approximately 60% of working mothers report feeling physically drained, impacting their overall health.
Mental Exhaustion
Mental exhaustion comes from constant overthinking and decision-making. For many women, daily responsibilities can pile up, resulting in an overwhelming cognitive load. After a long day, it can become difficult to switch off, making it hard to relax or find peace. Research indicates that 40% of adults regularly feel mentally fatigued, leading to decreased productivity and motivation.
Emotional Exhaustion
Women often shoulder emotional burdens, feeling obligated to support friends and family while neglecting their own feelings. This burden creates emotional exhaustion, making it difficult to experience joy or motivation. A survey reported that nearly 70% of women feel emotionally spent by their day-to-day responsibilities.
Social Exhaustion
Not every social engagement boosts energy. Sometimes, being around certain people can deplete it. It’s essential to establish boundaries with those who drain your spirit rather than uplift it. Research suggests that about 50% of people avoid social gatherings due to the emotional toll they have.
Creative Exhaustion
Sticking to repetitive routines can dampen creativity. Engaging in the same tasks daily can lead to a cycle that stifles new ideas and self-expression. A notable study found that 55% of creatives feel less inspired in monotonous environments.
The Consequences of Ignoring Exhaustion
When exhaustion is not addressed, it can lead to serious health problems. Fatigue can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of chronic illnesses. Sadly, some women find themselves in a loop of burnout, feeling overwhelmed and hopeless.
Consider my story, managing twin toddlers, a nursing career, and academic pursuits. My relentless speed ultimately resulted in an autoimmune disorder, highlighting the dangers of neglecting self-care and the need to take breaks.
The Importance of Rest and Rejuvenation
Breaking the cycle of exhaustion starts with prioritising rest. What rejuvenation looks like will vary from person to person. Here are practical strategies:
Schedule Downtime
Don't rely on spontaneous breaks; actively plan time for yourself. Whether it's a quiet morning with coffee or a blocked-off afternoon for relaxation, making it a ritual can help you unwind.
Practice Mindfulness
Techniques such as meditation or mindful breathing can create emotional space. Even just five minutes of mindful breathing can provide clarity and calmness during a hectic day.
Creating Boundaries and Setting Priorities
Setting boundaries is crucial for self-care. Learn to say "no" when you are overwhelmed. Prioritise what is essential and understand what can wait. Letting go of obligations that carry unnecessary stress is perfectly okay.
Understanding Your Needs
Take time to reflect on your own needs rather than fulfilling others’ expectations. This introspection can help clarify what truly matters in your life, allowing you to step back from situations that do not foster your happiness or well-being.
Final Thoughts
The reality of exhaustion is that it is multi-dimensional. It creeps in quietly, often disguised as busyness. Women, in particular, carry significant burdens, frequently at the expense of their own well-being. By understanding the various forms of exhaustion and prioritising rest, you can transform your life. Recognising signs of burnout and actively working to create balance can help reclaim your energy and improve your well-being.
Taking time for yourself is not a luxury; it's a necessity. You cannot pour from an empty cup. By caring for yourself first, you position yourself to better support those you love and embrace the roles you cherish.
Which is exactly why I created the 7 days of rest interactive challenge so I can share with you ways to prioritise yourself, and break the cycle of burnout which I have done myself. I am now free from the deliberating symptoms of my condition and with self awareness and grounding practices am able to recognise when i need to slow down not push on through.
This challenge begins the 3rd March for just 7 days with daily simple yet effective tools and techniques to guide you through overwhelm, burnout and tiredness.
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