Anergia
Anergia is an ongoing lack of energy and an inability to do normal daily activities.
What is Anergia?
Anergia is a chronic state of lethargy and low energy, commonly characterized by the inability to complete normal tasks. People with anergia may be constantly sleepy or lethargic, and may appear to have no interest in their hobbies, work activities, or social lives.
What Causes Anergia?
Anergia is not an illness itself, but a symptom of other conditions. A number of conditions can contribute to the development of anergia. People with depression commonly experience a lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy, and may have difficulty with energy levels. Some people with depression sleep most of the day and feel unable to face even basic daily activities. Some medications can also result in low energy, and withdrawal from chemical substances, as well as substance addiction, can cause anergia in some people. Narcolepsy, a sleep disorder, can also cause anergia.
Anergia can also indicate a physical health condition. People with heart conditions, particularly acute coronary syndromes, may experience anergia. Hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, can also cause lethargy and difficulty with energy levels. Anemia and chronic fatigue syndrome may also cause anergia.
How is Anergia Treated?
Because anergia is a symptom, doctors typically treat the underlying condition, and may order blood work, psychological diagnosis, and other tests to determine the cause. Lifestyle changes, medication, and other medical treatments may help people with anergia. Sometimes doctors prescribe stimulant drugs to help patients maintain normal energy levels, but these are usually only prescribed in conjunction with other treatments.
References:
- A.D.A.M. Editor Board. (2012, June 04). Hypothyroidism. PubMed Health. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001393/
- American Psychological Association. APA concise dictionary of psychology. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association, 2009. Print.
- Anergia prevalence in acute coronary syndrome patients. (2012, October 22). MPR. Retrieved from http://www.empr.com/anergia-prevalent-in-acute-coronary-syndrome-patients/article/264566/
Last Updated: 08-4-2015
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Anergia in response to trauma
June 24th, 2015 at 7:14 AMI witnessed my husband shoot himself in his head in 2007. I was standing three feet away when it occurred. His actions took his life. I now suffer from Chronic PTSD and other misc. Anxiety Disorders such as Agoraphobia and Anergia. I also have Major to Moderate Depression epidodes.
I self- isolate due to hypervigilance, rumination, intrusive thoughts and agoraphobia w/ panic.
My husband and I had a happy, 18 year long marriage. He was the victim of long term sexual abuse as a child. Although his suicide occurred 8 yrs ago I still have difficulty with isolation and trouble leaving my home. I experience major anxiety every time I have to go anywhere. This began immediately following the suicide when I was 42 years old.I’m currently 51 yrs. old with a M.S. in Psychology. Im unable to work even with anxiety medication and continuous therapy. Any hope? KHAnergia in response to trauma
June 24th, 2015 at 7:29 AMWill the Angergia worsen as I age? Or will it eventually dissapate. I have a strong spiritual belief and work a DBT program, (learned in therapy) daily to maintain. Basically, I can work my program or self-distruct. Any advice is welcome. I’m not a quitter. I thankfully no longer have suicidal ideation or thought of hurting self or others. KH
EMDR: look it up--fabulous for PTSD
June 25th, 2015 at 10:42 PMI am sorry to hear about your PTSD. Please research EMDR as a way to heal your brain & thoughts. I am not a dr. but took my son for EMDR for more performance anxiety & I cannot tell you the turn around is unbelievable.
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