Is It Depression or Is It Fatigue? Can It Be Both?
Written By Dr. Chelsea Dakers ND
Depression.
Exhaustion.
These two forms shape-shift from one another. We might ask ourself, am I actually tired, or is this something else?
The edge of one blends with the beginning of the other. I know this well, as I have walked this line many times.
Depression is sticky. Dense, heavy. Motivation is absent. Apathy lingers. Joy dwindles.
Exhaustion can be debilitating. At times there may be a lack of capacity to perform even the smallest activities of daily living.
Both states usually come with a strong desire to just lie down and close the eyes.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, conversation of the Spleen-Stomach system becomes relevant. Lack of energy, desire to lie down, heaviness… all point to the Spleen lacking capacity to transport and transform. This is a critical consideration in a western “digestion” picture and also having flavours of thyroid and pancreatic function.
When the digestion is not strong, damp accumulates. One may think of this as poorly digested food and the microbiome and nervous system dysregulation that comes along with this… The glycocallyx of the stomach and intestinal lining is altered and toxic biofilms may set in. The mind loops in ongoing rounds of rumination and fixation, attempting to find resolution with no success.
Dampness is heavy. Sticky. It obstructs. It can get in the way of our highest good. Whether that is fully digesting our food or our life.
Damp contributes to the aetiology of depression. It has to be drained away and the tissues need tonification once this drainage has occurred.
Dampness is likely related to the old naturopathic concept of “morbid matter”. This detritus that can accumulate in the blood, tissues and extracellular space that ideally moves through the pathways of elimination with ease.
When healing from chronic fatigue and exhaustion states, please consider dampness and depression in your analysis. It is prudent to rule out the common offenders - iron deficiency, B12 deficiency, overwork, chronic infections, nervous system dysregulation, etc. However, do not overlook the possibility that these fatigue states are not quite what they appear: not a state of overt deficiency, but actually a system bogged down; piled with a load too heavy too carry.
Clearing techniques may be called for. There are many ways of knowing that have differing approaches here, depending on the unique situation at hand. Draining damp and cutting away density often lightens the load and allows the life force to reclaim vibrancy. Like a very dirty piece of glass, once cleaned, allows light to shine through and reclaim it’s capacity for illumination.
Healing is multi-layered. Holding space in our awareness for the mental, emotional, physical or spiritual possibilities is important for a well rounded care experience. Letting go of assumptions and strict views of what is “worthy” in the realm of medicine is critical.
May full resolution be found!
Learn more about Dr. Chelsea ND’s approach to healing at chelseadakers.com or join the conversation on Instagram @chelseacreateshealth.
The disclaimer… The amazing thing about humans is that we all have incomparably unique health profiles and needs. The health-related information contained in this article is intended to be general in nature and should not be used prescriptively or a as a substitute for a visit with a naturopathic doctor. This info is intended to offer general information to individuals. If you have questions about how these strategies could be used in adjunct to your current heath regime, book and appointment with us or consult a licensed naturopathic doctor for individualized care.