Constantly t i r e d. Should I start drinking coffee again?

[pelicantown]

Hi! I've been struggling with fatigue for quite some time now (I can't remember the last time I felt truly energized), and I'm wondering if I should introduce coffee back into my life for a little kick. For context, I am very used to high levels of physical activity on a weekly basis (run 3 days a week and lift 3 days a week), and I'm wondering if this is a factor (it might not be, because I know it can also energize). I'm also wondering if winter is exacerbating my fatigue.

[Blueberry]

I don't know what is best for you and your body, but do know that healing from trauma can be absolutely exhausting, so if you can fit in time/space for breaks or naps as necessary that could be more useful than adding energy? But idk for sure. Even with cptsd we're all a bit different.

[Teddy bear]

I agree, that we are different.
But I decided to cease coffee as I've read it can interfere with my medication.
It seems to me, I've started to feel worse during the last few months of a regular moderate consumption.

I also feel tired often now.

[Kizzie]

Just my thoughts Pelican but it might be an idea to see your GP as there could be something physical going on, especially given you have a regular fitness routine. You may need some lab work to see what if anything is going on.

I will say that the stress of CPTSD often does have the effect of draining us of energy so you may want to bring this up with them although they may not know about complex trauma. If such is the case there is a download here you could give to them. Sadly, sometimes we have to educate our healthcare professionals about trauma as it is not taught regularly in university medicine programs just yet.

[NarcKiddo]

Whether or not you introduce coffee back into your life would depend in a large part on why you removed it from your life, I would think. From where I sit, not knowing that, my immediate reaction is that it may well be worth a try. But if you have reluctance to do so then it is worth exploring why that might be.

I personally find winter difficult at times. I dislike the long, dark days. But I don't personally find it causes fatigue - maybe if I am feeling low anyway it can reduce my motivation. However, it could be different for you. How have other winters been for you?

I am also used to high levels of physical activity. My levels used to be even higher because I need exercise to help regulate me. I exercise 6 days a week now instead of 7 and with slightly less intensity as I am better able to regulate myself now. Plus I have had some health issues to come back from that are holding me back a little. Personally I find hard exercise to be energising rather than tiring. If I start finding myself fatigued on a regular basis there is something else going on for me. It is worth considering your exercise in case you could be over-training.

I agree with Kizzie's suggestion that it might be worth seeing a doctor if you cannot pinpoint the cause yourself. Even if trauma is the main culprit there might be something else adding to the mix.

I hope you perk up soon.