I feel tired all the time- am i depressed?

General
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Since mental health awareness has increased unlike before, i do get questioned a lot by non-medico friends. They ask if they are depressed since they feel tired all the time! The reason behind fatigue might necessarily not be due to depression.

It can indicate any underlying vitamin deficiencies like VIT.B12, VIT.B9, VIT.D which are on the rise lately. They are more frequently seen in individuals who have a sedentary lifestyle and are dependent on junk food. In such cases it is a necessity to supplement them with the deficient vitamins.

Others reasons for unexplained fatigue can be- lack of exercise, imbalanced diet, improper sleep-wake cycle, stressful work environment etc. They can make certain changes in their lifestyle to overcome fatigue.

Although if the individual is clinically depressed we might also see other negative tendencies along with chronic fatigue. For example- loss of interest in daily activities, lack of motivation, insomnia / hypersomnia , frequent mood fluctuations etc.

Therefore it is necessary to advise a panel of vitamin tests to rule out any underlying vitamin deficiencies. Followed by mental health consult if needed.

MBH/AB

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Especially in vegetarians, they are more prone to low Vitamin due to their diet. Being a vegetarian myself I experienced all of the symptoms that you mentioned above, got my blood panel done, turns out I had low vitamins and iron, got the treatment done and all my lethargy subsided.

A reminder to all the people who are feeling depressed and lathargic get your blood tested.

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Unexplained fatigue is often a key symptom indicating possible vitamin deficiencies, such as those of vitamin B12, iron, or vitamin D, which are essential for energy production, oxygen transport, and muscle function.

Recognizing and addressing these deficiencies is crucial for restoring energy levels and overall health, preventing more serious complications.

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You’re absolutely right. Fatigue isn’t always a sign of depression, as vitamin deficiencies and lifestyle factors often play a major role. It’s best to evaluate physical causes first through appropriate tests before considering a mental health assessment.

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