Why It Happens

Depression causes fatigue by disrupting sleep patterns, blunting motivation, and altering brain chemistry that regulates energy and alertness.

Low Serotonin and Dopamine: Affect mood, drive, and focus, making tasks feel draining.

Inflammatory Markers: Depression is often associated with higher systemic inflammation, which increases fatigue.

Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or hypersomnia reduce sleep efficiency and recovery.

Emotional Exhaustion: Persistent sadness or apathy depletes mental and physical stamina.

How to Manage

Seek Professional Support: Therapy or medication can help regulate brain chemistry.

Get Morning Sunlight: Regulates circadian rhythm and boosts serotonin naturally.

Start with Gentle Movement: Even 10 minutes of walking improves energy and mood.

Eat Brain-Supportive Foods: Include omega-3s, leafy greens, and protein-rich meals.

Key Biomarkers

• Cortisol

Expert-Backed Reads

• The 7-Step Protocol to Conquer Stress: Insights from Andrew Huberman

• Understanding the "Stress Hormone" & Its Impact on Your Health

• 2 Silent Killers in Your Blood: How Mito Health Can Uncover and Combat Stress-Induced Aging

You Might Also Be Experiencing

• Fatigue After Eating

• Fatigue At Night

• Fatigue During Fasting

• Fatigue In 40S

• Light Sleep With Depression

References

• Mayo Clinic – Fatigue

• CDC – Fatigue

• NIH MedlinePlus – Fatigue