(Foreword: This is the continuation of our response to Almira Capricorn on her query on mental exhaustion.)
DEAR Almira Capricorn,
Alright, moving on...here’s more.
9. The way you eat changes
As mental fatigue affects your appetite in many ways, you may snack more than what is normal and you will not be careful on what you are eating. Stress can also make you look for sugary, salty, or fatty foods. Or sometimes, you won’t feel any hunger. You just don’t want to eat anything.
10. There’s more mistakes
Mental fatigue lessens your work proficiency and you get to commit more mistakes. This is especially an issue, especially if you are using machines or driving a vehicle.
11. There’s more pain
Sometimes, you will be able to get headaches, sore muscles, back pain, or stomach problems. And if you have another ongoing illness, it will be a bit more painful than you usually would.
So, to help you ease your mental fatigue, you have to take breaks. Recharging for a few minutes every 1-2 hours would be great. Here are some ways:
* Do the Pomodoro Technique, which is done through the following steps:
Set a timer for 25 minutes.
Focus on one task the whole time.
Take a 5-minute break when the timer goes off.
After the fourth 25-minute block, take a break for 15-30 minutes.
Repeat until your task is done (or your job is over).
* Be Active
You will feel more energy if you exercise during breaks, so stretch, jump or do some brisk walking for a few minutes.
* Relax
Get a massage. Or meditate, do yoga or watch comedy shows or movies. Get to friends or family and mental health professionals for more support.
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15 year stint with her radio program, “Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz.” For your questions, you may send e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don’t wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)