Faith - I am not surprised that you are run down. You've been dealing with extraordinary amounts of stress, and I can't recall hearing any talk about self care on your thread.
Some things to consider: - your anemia. Is the cause known? Since iron deficiency is most common, it is sometimes ASSumed to be that, but there can be other causes. Iron deficiency usually occurs in women with heavy periods or poor iron intake, and usually responds within weeks to iron supplements unless the heavy bleeding continues. (Note - taking high dose iron supplements for a long time or without a proper diagnosis isn't a good idea because some people accumulate too much iron and that's toxic). Other causes of anemia include B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia, due to inability to absorb B12), folate deficiency (uncommon), hemolytic anemias (where your blood cells break down to easily) and some hereditary causes of anemia like hereditary spherocytosis. If your anemia is chronic, you should consider getting a more thorough workup when you get insurance coverage again.
- your fatigue - could have several causes. Poor iron stores, even without anemia, can cause fatigue. Depression of course, or poor quality nightime sleep can cause daytime sleepiness. General malnutrition if you are not eating properly due to stress. And given anxiety and weight loss, you ought to be screened for hyperthyroidism just in case.
Overall, I'd say you probably need to make changes in your daily living patterns. Eat healthy whole foods - eggs, red meat, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, olive oil, nuts, avocados, dairy, fish, potatoes - your body needs the protein and good fats to rebuild from its malnourished state. Avoid processed foods, white flour and sugar, and caffeine because they will make your blood sugar bounce around and that will aggravate your anxiety and fatigue.
Keep a regular schedule and try to get 8 hours of sleep a night. Get some regular mild exercise, like a yoga tape or tai chi or walking. Set aside a few minutes for yourself each day to destress, even if it's just a bubble bath. You know how on airplanes they tell you to put your oxygen mask on first before helping your children with theris? You will not be any help to any of them if you burn yourself out - you NEED to practice self-care.
Take a multi and a B-complex. A combined calcium, magnesium and zinc tablet might also be a good idea for you.
Make stress relief and self-care a priority, and you will end up with more energy for the things you need to do.
