You know how your phone has that low power mode warning after hours of late-night doomscrolling? Or the petrol gauge in your car will go from amber to red (at which point, if you’re anything like us, you’ll panic and scramble to the closest petrol station, pronto)? Well, in news that might not be entirely welcome, it turns out our brains have the very same function. Dubbed ’low power mode’ by neurologist Dr Faye Begeti, running our mental battery right down has consequences. 

Here’s what low power mode feels like, and how to crack out of it in time for Christmas.

In order to understand the term ‘low power mode’, we need to consider how the human brain works. You’re likely familiar with the idea of executive function, the part of the brain that controls decision-making, logic and emotional regulation. Research shows that our capacity for executive function isn’t unlimited – put simply, we can overload our executive function capabilities, and they will show fatigue.

“Low power mode refers to a state where a device or a person operates with reduced energy consumption,” explains chartered psychologist Dr Louise Goddard-Crawley. “In technology, it’s a setting that extends battery life. In human terms, it’s a condition where individuals may experience decreased energy levels, both physically and mentally, often leading to fatigue and a sense of sluggishness.”

While the technology analogy is a useful one, there is one big difference between us and our phones: our phone can still function perfectly well on lower power mode. Humans are more complex.

“When we use the term ‘low power mode’ in the context of human energy levels, it’s important to note that it doesn’t imply that the individual is conserving energy in the way a device does,” says Dr Goddard-Crawley. “In human terms, it signifies a state of reduced personal energy, often associated with fatigue or decreased vitality and diminished well-being. In this case, it’s not a deliberate energy-saving strategy at all but rather an indication of being depleted or operating at suboptimal levels.”

You’re likely to have a pretty good sense of when you’re running out of metaphorical fuel. Feeling constantly exhausted, run down, sluggish and struggling to concentrate are all signs that we are operating on sub-optimal energy levels – and this impacts us both mentally and physically.

“The consequences of operating in low power mode are profound and wide-reaching,” warns Dr Goddard-Crawley. “Physically, this state compromises our immune system, leaving us more vulnerable to illnesses. The repercussions extend even to the potential development of auto-immune diseases.”

So, next time you’re constantly battling with a low-grade sniffle it might not just be the time of year that’s to blame – you might need to top up your self-care reserves.

But the signs of low power mode aren’t limited to physical symptoms. “Emotionally, the toll is evident in heightened irritability, diminished motivation and an overarching sense of emotional exhaustion,” says Dr Goddard-Crawley. “The strain doesn’t stop there; it permeates our cognitive functioning. Decision-making becomes compromised, marked by a tendency towards poor choices. You’re likely to struggle with forgetfulness and problem-solving.”

Before we can think about dealing with our low battery power, it’s important to acknowledge that we are struggling. The signs may vary from person to person, but if you’re careful to tune-in to how you’re feeling, you’re likely to recognise your own individual tipping point. 

“Recognising the signs of low power mode is vital,” says Dr Goddard-Crawly. “Try to understand the language your body and mind speak, and acknowledge when it’s time for positive intervention.” 

If you’re unsure where to start, Dr Goddard-Crawley recommends the following: 

1. Prioritise sleep. Make sure you get sufficient, quality sleep. Establish a consistent sleep routine and integrate relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing into your daily regimen.
2. Exercise regularly. Movement can be a potent antidote to low energy levels. Whether it’s a brisk walk or a full workout, moving your body contributes significantly to overall vitality.
3. Nourish your body with a balanced diet. Opt for whole foods rich in nutrients and stay hydrated throughout the day to combat fatigue.
4. Try to be more mindful. Simple practices like mindful breathing can be transformative. Identify stressors, establish boundaries and engage in activities that bring calmness and joy.
5. Break down large tasks into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrate these victories to maintain a positive momentum that fuels motivation.
6. Designate periods for a digital detox. Limit screen time, especially before bedtime, to improve the quality of your sleep and promote overall well-being.
7. Nurture positive relationships with friends and family. Social connections provide a crucial support system that contributes to emotional well-being.
8. Dedicate time to activities that bring joy and relaxation. Pursue hobbies outside of work to strike a healthy balance in your life.

If you find yourself regularly running on empty, or if low power mode persists and significantly impacts your daily life, consider seeking professional support. 

And finally, don’t forget that small changes can make a big difference. “Remember, transformation is a process,” advises Dr Goddard-Crawley, “and each small change contributes to a significant overall shift in your well-being.”

Images: Getty