VOX POP | Professional insight on why people are exhausted – Rob Ferreira clinical psychologist advises community
The community shared their thoughts dealing with and overcoming year-end fatigue.
“We all start every new year with enthusiasm and zeal as we embark on resolutions and goals ahead. But the truth is, the last two months of the year feel like you are carrying load of bricks.”
These are the words of a Rob Ferreira Hospital clinical psychologist, Dr Cebelihle Shongwe, to describe year-end fatigue. Shongwe said year-end fatigue is a common feeling of exhaustion that many people experience towards the end of the year.
She quoted a Bestmed article released on November 15, 2023, which defined fatigue as a feeling of extreme weariness, tiredness or lack of energy.
“This feeling can be caused by many factors, carrying from work-related stress, pressure to accomplish year-end objectives or personal thoughts about the previous year. The symptoms include chronic tiredness, sleepiness, irritability, low motivation, poor concentration and memory.”
People may find themselves being prone to car accidents and work-related incidents. These feelings can negatively impact your ability to execute your duties so you may find yourself leaving work half done, being absent-minded and forgetting to do work you’ve been assigned,” she said.
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Shongwe also said exhaustion can affect your mood leading to escalated conflicts, which may affect your relationship with others.
“The key to wellness is identifying the existing problem and having an honest conversation with yourself. This is a critical time where self-care is the highest priority; this may include connecting with yourself and practising kindness. Create a gratitude jar filled with notes of what you are grateful for despite the setbacks.
“It is important to note that setting realistic goals also alleviates the pressure that is brought by year-end unfinished goals. One should know the source of the pressure; for example, if it is emanating from social media, you can take a break from it. Reach out for help if you are feeling overwhelmed, consider your diet plan and evaluate your sleeping patterns,” Shongwe said.
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She added that seeking professional help is always important to your wellness. If your company does not have professional help available, it is your responsibility to make an appointment with a counsellor at your nearest clinic or a psychologist at a hospital.
Katekani Mahlaule:
“As a student, I was affected by exhaustion, but what kept me going was thinking about my financial background. It motivated me to keep going despite feeling tired.” Photos: Buhle Matsoele
Prayer Mashaba:
“Year-end fatigue really affected me this year. In the beginning of the year, it was easier to study and pass, but towards the end of the year, you are more tired and it is a challenge to study.”
Thabile Flank:
“Discipline is key to deal with year-end fatigue. This year has been a lot, but you prevail in the end. You shouldn’t allow negative thoughts to drag you down.”
Anele Gumede:
“I overcame end of year fatigue by staying off social media, because I felt that it was a contributing factor. During term four, I gave my mum my cellphone so I could study.”
