Fatigue is usually described as a need to rest because of a lack of energy or strength. Fatigue may also be described as a feeling of tiredness, exhaustion, or lack of energy. Often it is accompanied by impatience and a loss of motivation. Fatigue can be made worse by exercise, depression, and time of day.
Fatigue is a common symptom of mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety, or the effects of stress.
Home treatment may be all that is needed for a mental health problem that is causing symptoms such as mild fatigue. If your mood does not improve within 2 to 4 weeks despite home treatment, contact your health professional.
If you are thinking about suicide, have a plan to commit suicide, or are thinking about harming yourself or someone else, contact a health professional immediately. If you are not able to talk with your health professional immediately, call your local suicide hotline or the national suicide hotline (1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-273-TALK or 1-800-273-8255).
Credits
| Author | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Last Updated | January 13, 2009 |



