What are signs you need more self-care?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Your body gives clear signs when it really is time to give yourself some self-care. Many women ignore these signals until they find themselves in a crisis such as burnout or illness. If you notice these signs of early depletion, you can take action to remedy the problem before your health suffers. These signs occur in the physical, emotional, and behavioral areas.
Physical Exhaustion
- Persistent fatigue despite adequate sleep
- Frequent colds or infections signaling weakened immunity
- Unexplained body aches or tension headaches
- Digestive issues like stomach pain or appetite changes
Emotional Distress
- Increased irritability over minor inconveniences
- Loss of joy in previously enjoyable activities
- Persistent anxiety or racing thoughts
- Emotional numbness or detachment from others
Cognitive Decline
- Difficulty concentrating on routine tasks
- Memory lapses like forgetting appointments
- Indecisiveness about simple choices
- Reduced creativity and problem-solving ability
Physical fatigue manifests as lingering physical exhaustion that persists beyond the sleep that can refresh. You may suffer from frequent colds, as well as an underdeveloped immune system. You may have soreness in parts of the body or also have disturbances in the digestive process that do not have a disease-like origin. These indicate exhaustion of the bodily reserves to the danger point.
Indicators of emotional distress include increased irritability and emotional numbness. You may find yourself snapping at loved ones over trivial matters or feeling disconnected from activities you once enjoyed. Continued worry indicates that your nervous system is under stress and requires recalibration. You need to pay immediate attention to these changes in emotional state through self-care.
Cognitive decline presents itself with difficulties with focusing and memory issues. For example, you may struggle to pay attention while conversing with someone or have trouble remembering important appointments. Making decisions will seem tiring even with simple options. These shifts indicate your mental resources need replenishment.
Red flags for behavior include withdrawing socially and neglecting basic needs. You may start canceling plans frequently and skip meals. Personal hygiene practices are often the first to go. All of these are indicators that it has become clear the foundation for self-care is breaking down and needs to be rebuilt.
Recognizing these signs early allows proactive self-care restoration. Start with small, consistent practices before reaching severe depletion. Your awareness becomes the first step toward sustainable wellbeing.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Self Care Tips for Women
