The Link Between Shame and Fatigue
Shame can be exhausting, especially when it’s something we keep hidden. I remember a story shared by Ellen DeGeneres on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday years ago. Ellen talked about the intense relief she felt after coming out publicly, and how letting go of the secret lifted an emotional weight that had been draining her. That shift allowed her to relax, both physically and mentally.
Unresolved shame often holds us back from being fully ourselves. It might be a part of your life you’re hiding, a decision you regret, or an experience you’re ashamed of. Whatever it is, the energy it takes to keep it suppressed is real. And it’s draining.
Real-Life Examples
Let me share a recent example from my own practice. I had a patient who was carrying a lot of stress around his visa status and job security. He didn’t openly discuss it with others and had kept it to himself. Over time, it started to wear him down. We talked about it, and once he faced that fear and started addressing it, he noticed a shift. His energy started to come back, and he didn’t feel as weighed down.
Or think about it in simpler terms—when you tell someone something that you’ve been keeping to yourself, there’s often an instant sense of relief. For many, that feeling of release can be freeing, bringing clarity and even physical energy.
How to Release Shame and Reclaim Your Energy
So, what can you do if you’re holding onto something that drains you? Here are a few ideas:
- Talk to Someone: Sharing what you’re holding in, even with just one trusted person, can be incredibly freeing. Whether it’s a friend, therapist, or family member, talking about it can help lift the weight off your shoulders.
- Make a Decision: Sometimes, the shame comes from not making a choice, like being stuck on the fence about something important. Once you make a decision and own it, your mind and body can relax and move forward.
- Self-Compassion: Often, we are our own worst critics. Try to view your situation with a bit more kindness and let go of the guilt or shame that may be clinging to it.
Wrapping Up
Unresolved shame isn’t just an emotional burden—it can impact your health and drain your energy over time. So, if you’re feeling chronically fatigued and nothing physical seems to be the cause, ask yourself if there’s something you’re carrying in secret. Letting it go might be the energy boost you need.
Next time, we’ll dive into part 5 of this series, exploring another hidden cause of emotional fatigue that might be affecting you. Take care of yourself, and remember, small steps toward release can make a big difference.
If you missed our previous post on hyper-vigilance fatigue or want to watch the video on YouTube, be sure to check them out to learn more about the hidden causes of exhaustion.