Mental Fatigue – What is it, and how can it be prevented?

Mental fatigue sometimes occurs when you must concentrate for long periods of time on one particular task, especially when under stress. Lack of sleep and working late at night often contribute to mental fatigue.

Symptoms of mental fatigue include the following:

Difficulty concentrating on tasks
Tasks seem more complicated than usual
Increased mistakes
Clumsiness
Reduced memory and recall

There is no “cure” for mental fatigue, as it is a perfectly natural occurrence. There are, however, several ways to avoid or reduce it.

Fighting mental fatigue with rest and exercise

First and foremost, it’s important to get proper rest and exercise. Yes, we realize this is easier said than done, particularly during exams. But the best cure for mental fatigue is simply rest. Take a break from the task at hand, even if only for a few minutes. And don’t just sit at your desk and surf the net for your break; get some exercise. Even a quick walk around the block can do wonders in relieving mental fatigue: the improved oxygen supply resulting from exercise will give you an energy boost and improve cognitive functioning.

A balanced diet helps prevent mental fatigue

Diet can also play a role in mental fatigue. The student’s staple diet of coffee, candy bars and cigarettes doesn’t help: these items may temporarily boost energy, but ultimately they cause the body and mind to “crash”. Much better to stick to a balanced diet.

Focuset: your secret weapon against mental fatigue

Focuset is also very effective in combating mental fatigue, especially in combination with rest and diet. Focuset provides a mild, natural energy boost without making you jittery or unable to sleep at night. It also combats mental fatigue by supplying the brain with all the essential nutrients it requires for optimum functioning.

For the ultimate remedy for mental fatigue, combine all the above: rest, exercise, sensible diet and Focuset.