Are you tired of being tired? You might have adrenal fatigue!
I’ve always been driven.
Even as a child, I worked to achieve the top grades in school and be a leader in my church youth group. I graduated valedictorian of my high school class and proudly donned the medal for the Most Outstanding Female Graduate (the highest honor bestowed on any student) in college.
I was the president of more clubs and organizations than I can even remember, and I was on the editorial team of my college literary magazine and editor-in-chief of the newspaper.
Things didn’t slow down that much once I entered adulthood. While mothering two (and then through my third pregnancy), I worked many nights freelancing for several local newspapers before I started this blog. Over the past four years, I’ve built up this website and also co-found Ultimate-Bundles.
People have often asked me: “How do you do it all?”
The answer? I don’t.
Yes, being a work-at-home mom has been a necessity for our family, but all of these accomplishments have ultimately come with a price–a price I am just now seeing in my mid-30s.
In January, I crashed.
I had been headed there for quite some time. Nearly two years ago, an integrative MD and a chiropractor both told me I had signs of adrenal fatigue. I spent many days tired. I craved salt (so much so that during really stressful seasons I would pour it into my hand and lick it out!). At night I was too wired to fall asleep, so I kept on working after the girls would go to bed.
In addition, I had undergone some major family trauma about five years ago–a life trial that put me under prolonged stress.
But I never got to the point where I felt like I couldn’t even make it out of bed. That was the sign of ultimate adrenal burnout, and I applauded myself that I had never gotten that bad.
But then Nanny died. I spent two weeks crying every single day. Yes, I know where Nanny is. I know that I will see her again one day, but I was mourning my earthly loss of my grandmother.
My first sign that something was a little off was that I didn’t shed a tear at her funeral. After two weeks of crying day and night, it seemed I had cried myself out. I could cry no more.
Then, in late January, I came down with the flu. I had not been sick in years. I had barely suffered a cold, and now this? Although I do feel it was a mild case by most standards, the fatigue itself was debilitating. I could not drag myself out of bed. All I wanted to do was sleep.
And even when my fever and other symptoms subsided, the fatigue continued. My energy levels were completely depleted.
What is Adrenal Fatigue?
The adrenal glands are two glands that sit on top of each kidney. They are about the size of two or three pinto beans. But these tiny glands are powerhouses to our bodily systems.
The adrenals secrete adrenaline and stress hormones which influence nearly every system in our bodies, from our hearts to our sex hormones.
When the adrenals are overstimulated because of two much stress and lack of sleep (whether through work, life events, etc.), they get fatigued and stop functioning at optimal levels.
According to the website adrenalfatigue.org:
“Adrenal fatigue is a collection of signs and symptoms, known as a syndrome, that results when the adrenal glands function below the necessary level. Most commonly associated with intense or prolonged stress, it can also arise during or after acute or chronic infections, especially respiratory infections such as influenza, bronchitis or pneumonia.
“As the name suggests, its paramount symptom is fatigue that is not relieved by sleep but it is not a readily identifiable entity like measles or a growth on the end of your finger.
“You may look and act relatively normal with adrenal fatigue and may not have any obvious signs of physical illness, yet you live with a general sense of unwellness, tiredness or ‘gray’ feelings.
“People experiencing adrenal fatigue often have to use coffee, colas and other stimulants to get going in the morning and to prop themselves up during the day.”
Adrenal Fatigue symptoms include:
- slowed metabolism and weight gain
- salt cravings
- fatigue
- insomnia (wired but tired!)
- anxiety
- mood swings
- depression
- headaches
- frequent colds and flu
- irregular menstrual cycles
- muscle spasms
- palpitations
- and more serious issues as well!
Uncontrolled adrenal fatigue can lead to:
- arthritis
- autoimmune diseases
- chronic fatigue
- fibromyalgia
- hypoglycemia and type 2 diabetes
- infertility
- premature heart disease
- and more!
In the two weeks since I had the flu, I’ve decided that something had to finally change. I’m tired of being tired, and I need to heal my adrenals.
I’ve been reading up on adrenal fatigue and making a real plan for healing. Part of my plan includes working less. So, over the next few months, you will see fewer posts from me (only once or twice per week) and more guest posts. I am hoping you will enjoy “meeting” some new bloggers while I work to rest and recovery from pushing myself too hard for far too long.
Honestly, writing here as often as I want to is very hard for me to let go of. I have more blog posts ideas than I could ever hope to publish. I have over 400 drafts plus more ideas scratched down elsewhere!
But I am learning that I can spread them out and not have to write everything at once.
Next week, I’ll be sharing with you my plan for adrenal fatigue recovery.
I know far too many moms who are suffering from adrenal fatigue. Because so many of my friends are bloggers, I used to think this was a blogging problem (especially since so many of us work at night, after our kids have gone to bed!), but this subject has come up so many times in real-life conversations, with friends who are in the trenches of motherhood, that I now know that adrenal fatigue it not isolated to one group.
It’s an epidemic and nearly everyone in our fast-paced society is prone to it today–especially high achievers and driven personality types.
If you think you are dealing with adrenal fatigue, here is a list of books to help you begin the path to healing. These are the books I have been reading to help me through adrenal fatigue!
Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome
My friend Beth is also working through adrenal fatigue right now. You can read her story here.
Had you ever heard of adrenal fatigue? Do you think you’ve ever dealt with it? What are your tips for healing from adrenal fatigue?
Disclaimer: I am not a healthcare professional. I am just a mom who loves to research about health and wellness. The sources for this post are the books listed above, as well as adrenalfatigue.org. Please consult your trusted healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health!
Kel
Thankyou for sharing I had baby number 4 and was coping so I thort but between diagnoses of another child with autism and other issues I have kinda crashed and burned I’m at an all time low physically and mentally and am undergoing tests MRI and so on due to issues x
Erin
I pray you find answers and feel better soon, Kel!
Joy
i was ill for years before a naturopath nailed it. It was adrenal fatigue. A strict regimen and I’m much better. Don’t know if I’ll ever be perfect, but I’m definitely doing well! Good luck! I’d be happy to share what worked for me if you’re interested!
Erin
I’m so glad your naturopath helped you, Joy! I AM interested in your regimen–and I bet our readers would be too! Do you mind sharing more in the comments?! THANKS!
Marysue
Hi. I’m just reading this and wondering about Plexus? It says this page talks about Plexus, but I’m not seeing the reference. I have stage three adrenal fatigue and I’m really struggling. Can anyone tell me about using Plexus Triplex for this?
Erin
Hi! I don’t take Plexus and never have, so I’m not sure why something is saying that the page has that info. I’m sorry!
Megan
Yes, yes, and yes!! I was diagnosed in November 2014. I spentry years not feeling well-depression, exhaustion, low sex drive, anxiety, irregular periods, weight gain, etc. I was on 9 different medications for depression, asthma, thyroid, cholesterol, heartburn, anxiety… I still felt horrible. I’d go to my doctor a couple times a year so he could check my medications, they just didn’t seem to be working! He always said they were fine and I was just overweight and that was the issue. But no matter what I did, the weight didn’t come off. It got to the point that I could barely function. I’d get up in the morning, get ready for work, go to work and come home only to fall into bed.
It wasn’t until I went to a homeopathic doctor that I was diagnosed with adrenal fatigue. Years of issues with my brother, an abusive marriage, and the recent death of my sister took its toll on my body. In 2.5 months, I’m off most my medication and feeling great!
You can get your adrenal glands working properly again! Now I continue to monitor my body to ensure its handling stress well by taking supplements and doing regular biomeridian testing. So far, so good! 🙂
Erin
I’m SO glad to hear you are doing better, Megan–and so quickly! I am interested in hearing more about the biomeridian testing and which supplements you are taking!
Tracy
Can you share more about how you got off of your meds so quickly?
Lori Byrd
My mother has complete adrenal failure. She is now retired but was a full time mom and secretary of my dad’s business .I’m sure she ignored the symptoms for years but finally her adrenal glands stopped working . She almost died at the age of 50 and has lived for the past 21 years on daily steroid therapy which has left her with severe osteoporosis. My advice for your readers is to take care of yourself and realize that YOU CAN NOT DO IT ALL and there is no shame in that. Self care is so important. I have to remind myself of that daily as I inherited my mom’s workaholic personality. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice ,it’s my job to help share this with others and promote health and wellness. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Erin
This is such a wake-up call, Lori! Thank you for sharing your mom’s story as a warning for us all!
Crystal
I’m curious to learn more about this. I’ve been “off” especially since having my fourth baby about 20 months ago. The symptoms you listed I have all but one or two, & I am currently being monitored by a rheumatologist-but with little to 0 conclusive test results. No one has mentioned this or thyroid or hormones to me at all, but I have been thinking it could be something more like that. Any suggestions or direction to where I can find what to ask my doctor? I feel in the 3 minutes you speak with a doctor they are not taking I to consideration all symptoms, but one or two of the most uncomfortable or concerning ones.
Thanks for sharing this-it could help a lot of people!
Erin
Hi Crystal. Adrenal fatigue is not something every MD recognizes as being “real.” I would suggest readings some of the books I linked to and seeking out the help if an integrative medical doctor or a naturopath who is trained to recognize this and will do hormone testing. Something else I might try is a gluten-free diet.
Evie
Just to add a bit of balance, Adrenal Fatigue is not a medically recongized condition. There -is- a real disorder called Adrenal Insufficiency which is detected with blood tests. Also called Addison’s Disease, which can be a serious condition. However, there are other signs that go along with it that aren’t as vague. There ARE tests doctors & endocrinologists (hormone specialists) can run to help pinpoint causes. WebMD states “Though people often blame their hormonal glands, such as the adrenals or thyroid, for their tiredness, [….] in many cases fatigue is due to common problems such as: Poor sleep habits, Poor diet, Stress at work or home, and Depression. All of these can affect your energy level without involving your adrenal glands.” Being chronically sleep deprived myself from having a new baby, I have ALL of the symptoms of adrenal fatigue but also all the symptoms of sleep deprivation, exhaustion and poor diet. It isn’t a good idea to look at a list of symptoms and say “hey, I have that.” If blood work is all coming back normal, it is unlikely that there is anything wrong with your adrenal glands. So like you said at the bottom of your post, please see your medical professional for a diagnosis and not just what you read online! See http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/adrenal-fatigue-is-it-real
Erin
Thanks, Evie. It’s true that many medical doctors do not recognize adrenal fatigue, which I think is really sad. Thankfully, I know several MDs who do recognize it as a true condition. Blood tests are actually very inaccurate when it comes to adrenal fatigue. The best test for it is a saliva test to test cortisol levels. Thanks for commenting!
Angela
I don’t trust western medicine at all with my health. The only help I’ve ever gotten was through alternative methods. I wish insurance would pay for these methods, as I can’t afford them lately.
Erin
I wish insurance would pay too. 🙁 I personally prefer a mix of both western and eastern medicine. I seek out an integrative doc whenever possible.
Mandy Simms
Dont know how old this post is but I have to disagree about gojng to GP, get bloods done and if they are normal you are just probably tired, depressed ect ect. I did this for 18 stacking on 40 kilos after baby number three telling GP its my thyroid, test came back mormal. Got to the point even a physchiatrist couldnt treat my depression and chronic anxiety. I was suicidal!. Long story short I had a choice , mental facility or try a Natripath which goes againt societies view that only a GP can diagnose thyroud/hormone disorders. Endos are the same rely on TSH. Bingo, yes I was right it was my thyroid, plus estrogen and low cortisol due to years of non treatment. Was I pissed, you bet ya. Im 18 months in with treatment, ie NDT, progesterone therapy (GP wouldnt prescribe it so went to hormone specialing Dr, not Endo, Natripathic Dr who has a clue. ). Im still trying to get optimal, nearly there but I believe I probably need adrenal hormones as well now as I have adrenal fatigue which Im only using suppliments to treat it with. The adrenal fatigue has me at a third of the cortisol I need (had test) and this occurred because mainstream let me down nearly 20 years ago. My body and mind has been damaged and be ause of that Im at a 50 increase of getting dementia and Parkinsons disease. The TSH test is a joke as a test.
Holly
Prioritizing one’s health is always a good idea. However, a more balanced piece might have included well-respected medical opinion on this topic, including information from the Mayo Clinic:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/addisons-disease/expert-answers/adrenal-fatigue/faq-20057906
Erin
Thanks, Holly. It is true that not all medical doctors recognize adrenal fatigue, which I think is really sad. Thankfully, I’ve had some good medical doctors who do recognize it. Sadly, many medical doctors today, although well intentioned, do not recognize a lot of health issues–such as gluten intolerance, etc. A more holistic MD would recognize this.
Holly
The Mayo Clinic is highly regarded, which is why I trust them as a source. They do recognize gluten sensitivity (http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/gluten-free-diet/art-20048530) while also acknowledging there’s no definitive test for it (http://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/no-test-to-diagnose-wheat-or-gluten-sensitivity/)
I appreciate that you encourage people to consult their MD because as the original Mayo piece I linked points out, much harm can come from an adrenal fatigue diagnosis or self-diagnosis. People may not get the medical diagnosis/treatment they may actually need to heal. I find your comments and disclaimers quite gracious, just wish the original post had given a hint of how controversial/disputed adrenal fatigue actually is within the medical community.
Erin
Thanks, Holly. I will think about editing the post to include that information.
Angela
Consult an integrative doctor, because even the so called reputable mayo clinic won’t help or recognize with these kind of health issues. Their schools are bought off by pharmaceutical companies whom want you to stay ill so that they can make money off of you.
Erin
I agree on integrative docs; they are amazing!
Whitney Caves
I don’t know a ton about the medical aspects of adrenal fatigue, but I do know that as a counselor I see clients with varying degrees of these symptoms all the time. I think society recognizes people who “can do it all”, and not necessarily people who set up healthy boundaries with time, but we will eventually crash if we don’t set limits. This is probably the topic that I speak to groups on the most. Thanks for touching on this!
Erin
Thanks, Whitney. It is sad that our society pushes us to “do it all,” when we can’t!
Heather
Yep, Yep and Yep! I am currently working to restore this disaster, however, mine is more like a secondary condition. I’m learning as I journey through this condition (and am also studying to become a health practitioner) that my adrenal’s checked out due to stress – much of that stress began on the inside as a child. So, healing must not only be letting go of my time committments but also restoring the systems within that were causing chronic stress. It’s a catch 22 for me – a tough journey to heal. My gut was a mess and created too much stress – my adrenals aren’t working so repairing my gut is a mess. Because my gut’s a mess it invited way too many other stressors along the way (parasites, pathogens, bacterial infections, etc). I wish you the best of luck and a journey filled with healing as you work to restore what was lost!
Erin
I’m so glad you are finding healing, too, Heather!
Morgan
I have been dealing with Adrenal Fatigue for more than 2 years! I will probably have to deal with it the rest of my life because it will return if I am not careful with how I balance my stress. Tips I’ve learned so far: Rhodiola Rosea is a LIFESAVER! It is an adaptogen that helps increase energy and combat depression, along with a whole gamut of other things. I preferred taking it in the capsule ExcitaPlus because there were also a lot of other nutrients in there for your adrenals. Another supplement I recommend is Spring Tree Adrenal Stress Relief; this, paired with multivitamins and a wholesome diet, provided the nutrients my body needed to get back up in the saddle. Adrenal Fatigue demands excess nutrients to not only maintain your body’s needs, but replenish your nutrient stores. Otherwise you’re continually drawing from an empty well and you don’t have much stamina. Lots of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy meats help provide those nutrients to replenish. Avoid sugar and those things with a high glycemic index that cause your blood sugar to spike then drop.
Erin
Thanks so much for the tips, Morgan! The Adrenal Reset Diet mentions taking Rhodiola Rosea! Do you take it in the morning or night? I have been drinking lemon balm tea in the afternoons, and I LOVE it! What all is in the Spring Tree Adrenal Stress Relief?
Amanda W.
Praying for you! You’re blog has been a blessing to this wife/mama/homemaker! Thank you for posting such encouragement to us! I try to read every post! Please get the rest that you need and I pray you feel better soon! Looking forward to reading posts from your blogging friends and please keep us updated on how you are doing, when you are able to do so! Blessings to you and your family!
Erin
Thank you so much for your kind encouragement, Amanda! I LOVE blogging, so it’s SO hard for me to take a step back!! We have some great guest posts lined up, though! I hope to still post once or twice/week!
Megan
I saw a naturopath after being diagosed with adrenal fatigue and taking hydrocortisone for it. It helped but what helped me the most was having this naturopath test my neurotransmitters. Came to find that I still have major adrenal fatigue and am now on supplements to calm my overactive neurotransmitters. Worth checking into big time and I highly recommend a good naturopath who can look into that and so many other things. It does NOT have to cost a fortune either.
Erin
Thanks SO much for this advice, Megan!!
Diane
Thank you for posting this. I have been struggling for years. I don’t ever feel like “myself” and so much has suffered because of it. I’ve always been borderline anemic but even when my iron levels are up I have all of the symptoms you listed for AF. Can’t wait to read your posts on how you are healing.
Erin
Oh I hope you find healing, Diane! I’ve struggled with anemia too.
Dena Norton
I was just over at RedandHoney.com reading Beth’s post on adrenal fatigue and saw her link to this post. I had to come over to read it and am now leaving a near carbon copy of the comment I shared there here as well, hoping it’s of some encouragement to you and maybe to others as well.
I always appreciate your candor in writing about such personal topics. Much of your story actually resonates with my own. I had given birth, written a book, and launched a blog all within the same year and, last February, my body decided it just couldn’t take the heat any longer. I definitely believe a devastating event in our extended family life compounded things as well.
One year ago this month, I “crashed”, to use your term: My fatigue, crazy cycles, headaches, etc. became more consistent and disruptive to daily life. I knew something had to be at the root of it all. After reading a post Stephanie wrote on KOTH, I began researching more about adrenal fatigue.
I’m a registered dietitian by training and consider myself fairly open to natural/alternative therapies, etc. But I had to humble myself and recognize that I might need some outside expertise on this one. I began meeting with a holistic nutritionist who pointed to pituitary fatigue with adrenal involvement, in addition to my longstanding hypothyroidism (ah, the tangled web of hormone balance!). I have been nothing short of AMAZED and so very grateful to my nutritionist and to God for pointing me in her direction! I’ve been at it for nearly a year with diet and supplements, and am thrilled to report that my debilitating fatigue is gone, my cycles are very near normal, my skin is beginning to glow again and I just generally feel like I’m coming back to life! It’s so wonderful!
I pray God clearly leads you along the path to healing as well, and directs you to just the right resources for your own body! Thanks for bringing attention to this important condition that I believe is the underlying issue for so many “tired moms”!!
Dena Norton
oops, I wrote a post in response to your post, Erin – sorry for taking up so much real estate! 😉
Sarah B
Dena, I’m so encouraged by your success! Praise God for His direction. 🙂
Erin
Wow, Dena! It sounds like you went through a lot! I appreciate you sharing your story and tips!
Angela C.
One of my frustrations with our Canadian medical system is that even though health care is free, getting access to a naturopath and being able to pay for one is a financial barrier to most. Getting care from a doctor who might be open to Adrenal Fatigue or related issues would be very difficult to find here. On another note, stress, anxiety, performance orientation can be inner healing issues. Elijah House ministries (just google it) would be a good resource for getting to the spiritual/emotional roots of the issues as well.
Erin
Thanks for the tip on the Elijah House, and that stinks about the financial barrier. I would say it’s the same barrier here in the States. :/
Lisa J
I have been treating myself for adrenal fatigue as well the past few months. After much investigation, prayer, and some other failed doctor visits, God specifically led me down this path (too long of a story to share here). I am getting better, slowly, and I know it takes time. I have to see it as a journey or else I can get discouraged on my bad days. My supplements help me a lot: Multi, C, D, E, Fish Oil, Magnesium (powdered drink at night), B complex, CoQ10, and now Cortico B5B6 by Metagenics within the past week has given me a better boost I believe. Better eating with protein throughout the day and something every few hours (with a snack at bedtime) helps balance me and keep my blood sugar more stable. Yoga has helped me calm down and bring stability to my body. Dr. Lam has excellent info. on adrenal fatigue. I have read his book and also have his first CD of Adrenal Yoga (specifically geared towards healing the adrenals). I’ve got to buy the following ones. Sleep is so important, and I am working on that! I look forward to hearing more about your journey.
Erin
Thanks so much for sharing your story and what you are doing to heal!
Sarah B
Erin, thank you so much for sharing your journey with us! I’m sorry there is so much suffering out there, but am blessed by the support we offer one another in seasons of sickness. I grew up hearing about a few homeschooling moms that ended up with CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome) and never knew what it was…
My first baby was born via a very stressful and unplanned cesarean section. My story begins there. I had been a fairly healthy young woman with no weight problems. After the c-section, I initially lost weight, then began to gain again for no good reason, and get really puffy – just a few months after my baby was born. By my next pregnancy, I was diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism and prescribed Levothyroxine.
My next two pregnancies were healthy and I was able to deliver naturally with the help of a wonderful OB. However, after my husband got his PhD and we moved our family hours away to a small town, to a new teaching job and pastorate, my health started to slide downhill. I developed many mysterious and scary symptoms and was finally diagnosed with Hashimoto’s after years of looking for a doctor to help me.
By this time, I had birthed my fourth baby (my symptoms had dramatically decreased during pregnancy) and the recovery was long and difficult. I had 4 little ones to care for and not much help besides my wonderful hubby, who was very busy himself.
Somewhere in there, I got so tired I could hardly do more than the bare basics for my family.
A physicians assistant finally tested my cortisol and girl hormones – I was low in everything except estrogen (which was high), and I had very low cortisol in the morning and too much at bedtime. I told my husband every night at bedtime that I was so tired but not sleepy.
That was over a year ago. I tried a supplement or two, then a whole bagful and found my adrenals couldn’t handle the stress of the supplements either.
So I quit it all, started eating low carb (I found that cutting gluten helped a lot, as well as dairy), and adjusting to new foods. I’m now recognizing that sugar causes major fatigue and inflammation. My adrenals have been tested again and now I’m low all day and below normal at bedtime…so I’m near crashing.
I just read Adrenal Reset Diet too and am trying to implement that! I’m taking fish oil, a good multivitamin, D3 (my D is very low), and a probiotic as well as my thyroid hormone. Also trying Plexus Slim to balance blood sugar.
I’m eating more greens and protein and embracing healthy fats and healthy grains in the ARD way (I missed brown rice!).
I exercise a tiny bit each day (too much brings a crash). It feels so good!
I see a new OB Gyn soon and will check out the possibility of PCOS and see about some hormone supplementation…
It’s a crazy journey! Ultimately, I want to live each day with grace – living in the grace shown to me by my kind heavenly Father and giving grace to my children. This is not our home – I look more forward to the joys of heaven now than I did when I was healthy. But I also long to enjoy my children again…
I’m only 34 years old.
This is long, but I know I’ve been encouraged reading others’ stories – community makes a difference! I look forward to hearing what you’re doing and how it’s helping you!
Many blessings, Erin!
Sarah
Dena Norton
I found your story encouraging too, Sarah! I pray God continues to guide you on each step toward complete healing! 🙂
Erin
Thank SO much for sharing your story and what you are doing, Sarah! It sounds like you have been through a lot! I want to keep a food journal because I have a feeling a lot of mine is also brought on by certain foods. I am seeing an integrative MD in March to get a lot of tests run.
Amy
Sarah, I won’t go into my long, last few years of getting healthy. I’ll just say it’s similar to what many others have faced. I just wanted to tell you I also had very high estrogen, but low everything else. I have a naturopath doctor I work with and it took a few months to narrow it down to my face products! I was buying an expensive, supposedly natural face cream that had something in that made my body hang onto estrogen. I quit using it and it went down. I would have to get out my notes to remember exactly but he told me something to the effect that cosmetic companies don’t have to list some ingredients that are in smaller amounts, and that some ingredients are called by several different names so a person may not recognize it as an ingredient they are trying to avoid. He said his wife had a similar reaction from an eye cream. I also drink warm lemon water first thing every morning. This is a great way to keep your liver flushed out. Your liver is what stores all that excess estrogen ( at least in my case), so it’s essential to keep it flushing out. Anyway, just an FYI for you!
Erin
WOW, Amy! I am just now seeing this. Thank you for this info! I am going to write an update post in a few weeks after I nail some more things down, but the short of it is that I am seeing an integrative doc who also thinks my hormones are out of balance. My progesterone, in particular, seems low. I go in first thing tomorrow morning to get it checked (day 20 of my cycle) plus get the early morning cortisol test. I am taking Vitex for progesterone.
Kristy Howard
Erin, I relate to SO much of what you shared here today. I am driven, wired, and struggle to pace myself as well (I’ve pulled more all-nighters as a homeschooling mom than I care to admit, simply because I never feel like I can get everything done during the day).
My crash came during and after my fourth pregnancy, about four years ago. My issues were auto immune, though not specifically adrenal fatigue, and it took me about two years to fully heal my body, mind, and emotions.
I still get to the point where I can’t get out of bed if I push myself too hard for too long. My life is very much a careful and intentional balance of working hard, but still finding time to cultivate down time, embrace my need for rest, and create margins.
This is one of the primary reasons I’m content to be a hobby blogger, although my blogging dreams are a lot bigger than that. I discovered my limits the hard way!
Thanks so much for sharing your story. Take the pressure off yourself and lean into the balance that your body and soul are craving… I don’t think you’ll regret it.
{{HUGS}}
Erin
I’m so glad it’s not just me, and I’m encouraged to hear of others who have learned to pace themselves and find healing! I think your blog is GREAT–and definitely VERY professional for a “hobby” blog! But yes–being a “pro” blogger takes a LOT out of me!! So thankful for help and grace!
Sarah Koontz {Grounded & Surrounded}
I had stage 4 Adrenal Fatigue a few years back. I spent all of the 2013-2014 school year at home resting and recovering. I said no to everything, stepped down from many leadership positions at our church and took a break from my international marketing business. It was SO HARD to let everything go. But I completely cleaned my plate, and the only responsibilities I had were to care for my husband and kiddos. I even gave myself permission to be a bad friend.
I just HAD to get better, I was only 30! Erin, can I just say….the other side of Adrenal Fatigue is the sweetest place I have ever been in my life. I have learned my limits, I have found my worth apart from my work and I am finally HEALTHY!
You have already done the hardest part, admitting that something has to change. Recognizing you were pushing yourself too hard. And giving yourself permission to rest.
My only encouragement to you is to give yourself TIME, and lots of it. Healing doesn’t always come quickly, and with your self described “achiever” personality you are going to have to hold yourself back a lot.
But it gets easier. I am proud of you and I am praying for you.
Erin
Thanks so much for all of the encouragement, Sarah! Your story is such a great testimonial!
Christina Lozier
Thank you for sharing that you came out the other side of adrenal fatigue, I needed to hear some success stories! I crashed 3 weeks after my 7th child moved out, and 6 months after my 2nd divorce. I see a naturopath “cell coach” and am on a vegan diet. It is very
S l o w progress, but God is faithful and will bring about my healing as l learn self care.
Jessica
My mom has been telling me I have Adrenal Fatigue for months. My husband and I just moved 2.5 hours south, bought a house, (still own our old house), have a 2 year old, are considering moving AGAIN (which means selling this house), my husband diagnosed with having Borderline Personality Disorder within the past month (we also think he may have high-functioning Autism – formerly diagnosed as Asperger’s) and I’m pretty sure I’m pregnant (yes, we know how that happens. Our marriage had been the best in years and we felt it was a good time…then a few weeks later he brought up moving…sigh). Oh, and I also run my own Etsy business to help supplement his low income.
I saw your post via Facebook, remembered what my mother has been telling me and then took an Adrenal Fatigue Test – and yep! I seem to have a pretty severe case of it. Anyway, I really appreciate you sharing and being so open. I’m a big-time over-achiever, try to do it all, loves being “busy”, and still always feel like I’m not doing enough and am always “behind” on something. I’m tired all the time, but just keep pushing because I’m afraid things will fall apart if I don’t.
I’m really looking forward to your plan for recovery as I’ll probably use it as a spring-board for myself. Thanks again for sharing!
Erin
I hope you find healing soon! My plan for recovery will publish next Monday! It sounds like you have been through a lot, but I’m glad to hear your marriage is thriving!
Jessica
Thanks, Erin!
Kelsie
This keeps coming across my radar lately, and it has me wondering….a food sensitivity/allergy journey with my three kids over the last four years has been so stressful on me….we have been moving towards a GAPS diet, but resistance from my husband has added extra stress. I have always functioned on too little sleep, something I used to be proud of, but now I regret that. I have also struggled with anxiety and depression since I was 18. At the end of October, I very suddenly packed on a lot of weight…probably 20 pounds within a month or so…something is not right. I just took my youngest (18 months) to a naturopath to see what he had to say about the allergies. I was really impressed with him, and have been considering making an appointment for myself. I am going to do some more research on adrenal fatigue in the meantime. Looking forward to your post next week! Thanks!
Erin
I would definitely see if you can get in with the same naturopath!
Michelle
This was great! I have been dealing with many of these issues. My doctor did labs and many were borderline, and because of that, he said “everything is normal. ” this was after he told me he thought I had a connective tissue disorder or lupus… I gave been makibg changes in my diet and am feeling a difference. I am curious, I only have room in the budget to purchase one book that you mentioned. I read reviews for all and can’t choose! Which would you suggest if you had to pick just one? Thanks!
Erin
Hi Michelle! I am so sorry! I mostly answer comments from the back-end of my site and sometimes I miss them! I am just now seeing your comment, and it’s been a month. 🙁 I am sure you have bought a book by now. If I could buy just one, I would buy The Adrenal Reset Diet. I think it explained things most clearly to me–even if you don’t choose to follow the diet.
Laurie
I spent quite a bit of time trying to fix my adrenals to no avail. Then I found a great naturopath who found that, though my adrenals were indeed shot, the root of the problem was a barely-functioning pituitary which is why I never made any progress with the adrenals. As she worked to restore the pituitary the adrenals followed right along and I feel better than I’ve felt my whole adult life. I just wanted to comment to let people know that sometimes we need the help of a professional. I self-diagnosed for years and just got worse because I could not see the whole picture.
Carolyn
Laurie, do you mind sharing how your naturopath addressed your pituitary? I am having the same issue. It’s been 2 1/2 years and I have seen one ND after another but in my area the knowledge is rather limited. But my research isnt! Thanks in advance!
Laurie
Carolyn, she uses Meridian Stress Assessment. You can google that to learn more…it’s biofeedback. And I admit that it sounds a little…weird…but it has certainly worked for me very well.
Erin
This is so helpful, Laurie! Thanks so much! I am so glad you got help! I am seeing an integrative doctor.
Shawna
I realize this is an old post, but it caught my attention. After nearly 9 months of suffering with muscle and joint pain and sever fatigue, I was diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease) about 2 months ago. With more tests, they discovered a pituitary tumor, which is the root cause of the malfunctioning adrenal glands.
I was told that having surgery to remove the tumor would result in restoration of the pituitary gland, which would help fix the adrenal insufficiency. If I hadn’t pushed and done my own research, my body would have gone into adrenal crisis and it could have been fatal.
Please, everybody, listen to your bodies and advocate for yourself and your health. Keep pushing doctors to find out what is going on. Don’t stop!!!
Jill York
I suffered from severe fatigue and other strange health problems in my early 20’s. I got to the point that it exhausted me to even brush my hair. I saw at least 2 different doctors that told me I was fine and healthy, but I knew I wasn’t. One doctor wanted to put me on antidepressants-which had nothing to do with my symptoms. Up to this point I didn’t know a thing about natural remedies and didn’t even consider the natural realm. However God graciously opened doors for me to see a natural chiropractor and he treated me for adrenal fatigue and nutrient deficiencies. I felt better within 2 weeks and better than I had in years within 4 months. Because of this healing, I started digging into a natural lifestyle and eventually started my blog to help others treat themselves naturally.
Erin
WOW, Jill! That is so young for issues like this, too! I am so glad you got some great help and are now able to help others!
Amanda
The most important thing is to check if there is a mental disease involved because “Burn Out” and adrenal fatigue may be a result of that. Dont treat it as a mainly physical illness if there are other issues involved. I have adrenal fatigue and depression as a result of a personality disorder and in order to treat my adrenal fatigue, I need professional help and therapy.
Amanda
The most important thing is to make sure that there is no mental illness behind your adrenal fatigue before you start any treatment. I have adrenal fatigue and depression as a result of a personality disorder and in order to treat my adrenal fatigue, I need therapy as the basis for my treatment.
JP
I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good professional to see in North Carolina regarding Adrenal Fatigue. I was diagnosed with it six years ago but the doctor I saw was VERY expensive and I just could not continue it financially. I could go back to the doctor but have seen some reviews since then on their website that make me doubt it is a good idea due to the over-prescription of their own supplements and a few other personnel issues.
Veronica
Thank you for sharing your journey and the adrenal fatigue information. I have been struggling with these symptoms for over a year and told my doctor that I was extremely fatigued. He said it was because I am the mom of three small children, but I knew there was more to it. When I took the questionairre on adrenalfatigue.org, I scored severe adrenal fatigue. It is all making sense now because I have experienced extreme stress in the last two years from a crisis in our marriage to having baby number 3 and my husband losing his job a few months after that. Were you able to find a doctor who could “officially” diagnose and treat you? Do you think it is possible to recover on your own by reading the books and changing diet and lifestyle?
Kathy Hoar
Thank you for sharing. I was recently diagnosed with poor functioning adrenal glands caused by burn out and following a severe lung infection. This article is so similar to my experience. I am being treated by a natural path who has provided me with an adrenal supplement. I am so pleased to have an understanding of this condition. Thanks.
Madi
I have been searching for my symptoms and as I diagnosed, I probably suffering from adrenal fatigue. I didn’t pay so much attention with my – salt cravings, extreme burnout, headache and mood swings, until all of a sudden I collapsed. Fortunately, my friend’s found me not so long ago after I lapsed (my guess) been there to visit me. So, I have learned my lesson. Anyway, I liked your post and condolences to what had happened to your Nanny. She’s been so proud of you. Always.
Elisa Koranda
Thank you for sharing your story! My chiropractor mentioned to me last year that he was sure I was suffering from adrenal fatigue. I have all of the symptoms that you listed above. Validating and sad, at the same time. My chiropractor recommended a product that he thought might help me, some sort of adrenal flush/reset. I was leery to try it and I haven’t yet. Since then, I have had some thyroid issues and recently had to have surgery. I am trying to wait until the dust settles with that before pursuing any more adrenal stuff. Thanks again!
Jess.
I had never heard of adrenal fatigue before today, but it sure sounds like me! Besides constant fatigue (3 kids under 5), I’ve had 2 miscarriages in the last 7 months, after 3 healthy, low-risk pregnancies. I’ve known I needed more sleep (night owl and young children don’t mix well), but maybe I need it more than I thought!
Jennelle
Hi! Thanks for this post! I recently learned about this fatigue about 3 months ago. I have always been a “worker” and the wife, mom and bread winner. In February of 2015 I was suddenly fired from a job that I had created, built and implemented for a company that was coming out of its infant stages. I had never been unemployed in my life. I found a job rather quickly but realized after about 6 months it wasn’t satisfying and the people were down right mean! Me being a people pleasing perfectionist I still needed more. I took a low paying job for a chiropractor thinking even with less money it would be perfect. Needless to say this doctors office job at 37, less than Half the pay I was accustomed to making to support a family was not working out. The hours were not “flexible” and I was more of her 24/7 personal assistant. Before coming upon another job she diagnosed me with adrenal fatigue. It presents itself so much like depression! Once I started taking supplements for it and became more aware of avoiding certain foods things have really been better! For me, eating breakfast, little to no coffee and the supplements have been huge! It’s nice to know I’m not alone.
Tina
Been there done that. And crashed as well after delivering my still born and having a huge fire right after. The adrenal reset diet book by Christiansen brought me right out of it with a lot of prayer! Suffered for about ten years and recovered in only about 3 months with it. Oh and Rolfing brought a huge turnaround. So glad you are posting this and helping so many who struggle!! Btw I Love Love your blog!!!
Tracey
Thank you for sharing your experiences. I think every mother has burn out and really unsure what is really causing the fatigue. These are couple of great articles that might be helpful. (https://www.drlam.com/blog/healthy-microbiome-adrenal-fatigue-part-1/21862/) (https://www.drlam.com/blog/reactive-metabolite-response-adrenal-fatigue/29186/)
Erika
I’m right there with you. I just blogged about it!
art
Have you guys experience waking up feeling hot in the middle of the night and having a hard time falling back to sleep? Every single night 1 to 4 am I do. In the morning, I feel light headed, low energy but not to the point you cannot function. I had a low pulse rate and palpitation once in a while. Also I have GI issues, feel full most of the during dinner even I just ate salad.
My result (endoscopy/biopsy) came out fine, next week Breath Test – I have a feeling it will be negative. I’m tired of being not a 100%. Good thing, I’m not alone with this kind of symptoms. Thanks Erin for the books (The Adrenal Reset Diet , Tired of Being Tired ,Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome) I ordered them online. I’m excited to read all of them and be ready to recovery.