Neurasthenia is a psychological disorder that has been an object of interest throughout the history of psychology. Although it is no longer frequently diagnosed today, it is important to understand what it is, what its possible causes are, the symptoms it presents and how this condition can be treated.
Definition of Neurasthenia
Neurasthenia was first described at the end of the 19th century by the American doctor George Miller Beard. It is characterized by extreme exhaustion, chronic fatigue, and a generalized decrease in the ability to perform daily activities. Although at the time it was considered a physical illness, today it is understood as a psychological disorder related to stress and anxiety.
Causes of Neurasthenia
The causes of neurasthenia They can be multifactorial. Among the factors that can contribute to the development of this condition are:
- Chronic stress: Prolonged exposure to stressful situations can lead to physical and mental exhaustion, characteristic of neurasthenia.
- Excessive expectations: People with high expectations of themselves tend to become overloaded and experience high levels of stress, which can lead to neurasthenia.
- Genetic factors: Some studies suggest that genetic predisposition may influence a person's vulnerability to developing neurasthenia.
- Emotional problems: Traumas Past, untreated anxiety disorders or depression can contribute to the development of neurasthenia.
Symptoms of Neurasthenia
The symptoms of neurasthenia can manifest in various ways and vary from one person to another. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Extreme fatigue: Constant feeling of exhaustion and lack of energy, even after periods of rest.
- Concentration problems: Difficulty maintaining attention on simple or complex tasks.
- Irritability: Frequent mood swings, excessive irritability and difficulty controlling emotions.
- Sleep problems: Insomnia, difficulty falling asleep or frequent awakenings during the night.
- Physical pain:
- Physical pain:
- strong> Headaches, muscle aches, or gastrointestinal discomfort with no identifiable medical cause.
Diagnosis of Neurasthenia
Diagnosis of neurasthenia can be a challenge for professionals of health, since many of the symptoms it presents are common to other psychological and medical disorders. It is important to perform a thorough evaluation that includes:
- Clinical interview: The professional will collect information about symptoms, medical history, and stressful situations that may be related to neurasthenia.
- Medical exams: Physical tests and blood tests may be done to rule out other medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms.
- Psychological evaluation :Questionnaires and rating scales can be used to measure the severity of symptoms and determine the impact on the individual's daily life.
Treatment of Neurasthenia
Treatment of neurasthenia is based on addressing the symptoms and underlying causes of the disorder. Some of the most common therapeutic strategies include:
Psychological Therapy
Psychological therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective in treating neurasthenia. This therapy helps the individual identify and modify negative thoughts, develop strategies to manage stress, and improve coping skills.
Medication
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to treat the symptoms of neurasthenia. Antidepressants, anxiolytics, or mood stabilizers may be helpful in managing anxiety, irritability, and sleep problems associated with this disorder.
Complementary therapies
Complementary therapies, such as meditation, yoga, acupuncture or aromatherapy, can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality and increase the feeling of well-being in people with neurasthenia.
Lifestyle changes
Making lifestyle changes can also be essential in the treatment of neurasthenia. This includes establishing healthy sleep, eating and exercise routines, as well as learning to set limits and prioritize self-care.
Conclusions
In summary, neurasthenia is a psychological disorder that is characterized due to extreme exhaustion, chronic fatigue and concentration problems. Although it is no longer frequently diagnosed, it is important to recognize its symptoms and seek professional help if its presence is suspected. With a proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of neurasthenia, it is possible to improve the quality of life of those who suffer from it.