Managing tiredness
If not dealt with effectively, tiredness can have a profound effect on physical and mental health, work, relationships and quality of life. Pharmacy teams can be on hand to help customers manage tiredness in whatever way they see fit.
The seven steps
Improving sleep by sticking to regular times for going to bed and waking up; keeping the bedroom quiet and at a comfortable temperature; reducing daytime napping; avoiding eating and drinking late at night; and relaxing before bed by taking a hot bath, listening to music, reading or using a relaxation technique.
Taking regular exercise, as this can increase energy levels. It may be difficult to contemplate for those who are feeling tired, but the key is to start with something small but regular, such as walking, then slowly increase the duration over weeks or months with the aim of improving fitness, strength and stamina.
Reducing stress levels by introducing relaxing pursuits such as yoga or spending time with friends.
Stopping smoking and cutting back on alcohol. Both can affect sleep, which in turn impacts energy levels the next day. Reducing these slowly may be easier than quitting abruptly and will help limit withdrawal symptoms.
Eating a healthy diet with the aim of getting to and/or maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI).
Planning activities so that a frantically busy day does not result in being unable to do anything the next day because of exhaustion. A little every day is much more sensible.
Managing expectations so that they are realistic in terms of improving energy levels and maintaining them. It can be helpful for people to reflect on whether they were expecting too much of themselves and if they have struck a good balance between work and other obligations, rest and leisure activities.
Don't forget...
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), which is sometimes referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is different to everyday tiredness. It causes persistent fatigue and a feeling of being generally unwell, which can result in severe impairments to daily functioning, and does not improve with sleep or rest. It can affect anyone but is more common in women and tends to develop between the mid-20s and mid-40s.
Signposting
For more information, you can:
- Use your Counter Intelligence Plus training guide
- Visit the NHS website to:
- Read more on sleep and tiredness
- Discover more about the importance of exercise
- Find out more about healthy eating
- Understand more about winter tiredness