Struggling with Fatigue and Low Spirits
I am a 27-year-old male whose first language is not English. A psychologist with two decades of experience in autism has diagnosed me with this condition. I previously took olanzapine, which caused an unusually long sleep of 20 hours during my first dose; however, I’ve stopped using it since then. While I was taking a sublingual form of vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) at a dosage of 1000 mcg, my serum level registered at 290 pg/mL. This led to an unexpected surge of energy accompanied by feelings of anxiety and restlessness that I couldn't quite articulate, lasting for over six hours. I suspect that I might have a particularly sensitive nervous system. I'm contemplating whether to resume my B12 supplementation, as well as starting vitamin D3 at a dose of 2000 IU. Prior to taking D3, I found my levels to be very low, around 15 pg, though I can't recall the European unit it corresponds to at the moment. Additionally, my TSH level has been measured at 4, and I've been diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease. I’m currently at a loss as to why I continue to experience fatigue and a low mood. Does anyone have suggestions or insights that could help?
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 1:30:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're grappling with significant fatigue and low mood after your experiences with medications and vitamin supplements, while also managing Hashimoto's disease. Let's break down your situation and focus on actionable steps to potentially improve your well-being.
Main Points:
- Your fatigue and mood issues may be related to underlying conditions, including Hashimoto's.
- Vitamin B12 and D3 are worth considering but need careful management given your reactions.
- It's essential to monitor your symptoms closely and adjust your approach based on how you feel.
Explanation
Fatigue and low spirits can arise from many factors, especially in the context of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which can cause thyroid hormone fluctuations that affect energy and mood. Your past experiences with medications and vitamin levels suggest a complex interaction within your body, particularly with your nervous system's sensitivity.
- Vitamin B12: Your initial experience with B12 supplementation was mixed, causing both increased energy and anxiety. This could indicate that while your body may need B12, it may also react strongly to it.
- Vitamin D3: Your very low vitamin D levels do suggest that supplementation may help improve your mood and energy levels. The recommended dose of 2000 IU is often considered safe and beneficial, especially for those with low levels.
Next Steps
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Resume Vitamin D3: Start with a dose of 2000 IU of vitamin D3 daily, monitoring how you feel over a few weeks. It may help boost your mood and energy while simultaneously raising your vitamin D levels.
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Evaluate B12 Responsively: If you choose to resume vitamin B12, do so cautiously. Consider starting at a lower dose than 1000 mcg to observe how your body responds. You might also want to track any changes in your mood or energy to better assess your reaction.
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Monitor Thyroid Function: Since your TSH is measured at 4 and you're diagnosed with Hashimoto's, work with your healthcare provider to ensure that your thyroid hormone levels are optimized, as untreated thyroid dysfunction can significantly contribute to fatigue and low mood.
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Lifestyle Considerations: Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in whole foods, and good sleep hygiene can also support your energy levels and mood. Aim for consistent sleep patterns, as irregular sleep can exacerbate fatigue.
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Mental Health Support: Given your experiences with anxiety, consider pursuing counseling or support groups that understand autism and mental health, as these can provide a helpful outlet and coping strategies.
Final Thoughts
It’s great that you are seeking solutions for your fatigue and low mood. By taking small, measured steps with your vitamin supplementation and lifestyle adjustments, you can better manage your symptoms. Remember to track changes and listen to your body as you adjust your regimen. If anything feels off or you experience significant discomfort, make sure to review your plan with a healthcare provider. You’re not alone in this, and finding the right balance takes patience and care.
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