According to a new report published today, one in five Irish people suffer from exhaustion every day and one in four have had time off work due to tiredness.

The report, which includes research* carried out by Opinion Matters on behalf of the multivitamin Pharmaton, looked at the levels of fatigue and stress in Irish people and the impact on work, health and family life. Eight out of 10 people surveyed agree that society is more pressured now than it was five years ago.

The research found that the main causes of stress for Irish people are money (58%) and work (50%) followed by appearance/ weight (36%) and relationships with partners and friends (25%). The management of this stress and tiredness is cause for concern with 17% of respondents turning to alcohol to de-stress.
 
The survey results also showed that:
•   Almost 50% said that their boss doesn’t see the pressure they put them under
•   32% have made a mistake at work due to tiredness
•   13% have fallen asleep at their desks
•   10% have cried at work due to exhaustion
•   45% have recently been too tired to concentrate
•   40% of people feel like a failure

Commenting on these statistics, family GP Dr Paul Heslin said: “These results show that recognising and acting on fatigue as soon as possible is crucial as concentration, attentiveness and mental performance can all be affected. Fatigue in the workforce can also cause loss of efficiency, productivity and profitability.”

The results also showed that personal relationships are being affected with 64% snapping at their family because of tiredness and 29% of respondents saying that they have recently been too tired for sex.

Although half of those surveyed admitted feeling tired at least once a week, a quarter of respondents don’t seek advice about tiredness from anyone. According to Dr Heslin: “Talking with someone else about the pressures in your life is vital. This can be done with friends, family, counsellors, pharmacists or GPs who can give clear advice using local supports, exercise and nutrition. Ensuring that you have a well balanced diet and an active lifestyle are key elements in the fight against fatigue.”

70% of those surveyed avoid exercise due to tiredness but according to Dr Heslin, gentle, graded exercise should be a vital part of any plan to combat fatigue: “It is important to notice and act on the negative cycle where tiredness prevents good nutrition, sleep and exercise. When you understand and break this cycle you will slowly but surely return to better health,” he said.

Containing a unique plant based extract known as G115®, extracted from Panax ginseng, Pharmaton® Capsules can reduce tiredness and improve how you feel within just 28 days of use. They work by helping to sustain energy levels throughout the day - reducing Daily Fatigue and exhaustion to improve physical and mental performance. The phyto-medicine is supported by more than 30 clinical trials. Pharmaton® Capsules also contain a blend of Vitamin A, B, C and D, calcium and folic acid, among with other important minerals. They are available in packs of 30 or 100, priced from €15.26 and are stocked in pharmacies throughout Ireland.

Ends

Notes to editor:
*Research was conducted by Opinion Matters in February / March 2010 with a sample of 1010 adults in the Republic of Ireland.