Why Am I So Tired?!
In the clinic, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Why am I so tired?”
It’s a simple question, but the answer is rarely straightforward. Fatigue can be frustrating, disruptive, and even concerning—often a sign that your body is trying to tell you something important.
Now that we’re well into the summer months, many families are adjusting to a completely different routine. With school out, working parents are juggling new schedules, activities, and childcare. Grandparents might be stepping in to help, and the daily routine can feel anything but routine.
It’s no surprise that many people feel more exhausted than ever. Some causes of fatigue are easy to pinpoint—others, not so much. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common reasons we feel so drained and what you can do about them.
1. Poor Quality Sleep
You may be in bed eight hours, but if your sleep is fragmented or restless, it’s not doing your body any good. Conditions like sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, or even stress-induced wakefulness can leave you feeling worn out by morning.
What can help:
Establish a consistent bedtime routine.
Avoid screens at least an hour before bed.
Skip caffeine after lunchtime.
Create a sleep-friendly environment that’s cool, dark, and quiet.
2. Nutritional Gaps
Summer often means eating on the go, grabbing snacks at kids’ events, or skipping meals entirely. You might not realize that your diet is low in essential nutrients—or that you’re mildly dehydrated.
What can help:
Plan and prep meals ahead of time to reduce weekday stress.
Focus on a well-balanced diet of plant-based foods, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
3. Stress and Burnout
Coordinating summer camps, activities, work deadlines, and family obligations can feel overwhelming. When your schedule leaves little room for rest or self-care, stress builds—and so does fatigue.
What can help:
Ask for help—from family, friends, or neighbors.
Set clear boundaries with work and social commitments.
Schedule small pockets of downtime each day, even if it’s just 10 quiet minutes.
4. Undiagnosed Medical Conditions
Sometimes, fatigue is more than just a busy season. Conditions like thyroid disorders, anemia, or diabetes can creep in and go unnoticed until symptoms start affecting daily life, especially when stress levels rise.
What can help:
Schedule an annual physical if you haven’t had one recently.
Talk to your healthcare provider about persistent fatigue.
Get lab work done to rule out common underlying issues.
Final Thoughts
Fatigue that lasts more than a few weeks shouldn't be ignored. Whether it’s due to lifestyle habits, seasonal stress, or something medical, it’s worth paying attention to.
Sometimes, it’s the small, daily choices that make the biggest difference:
Stay hydrated
Move your body regularly
Don’t rely on caffeine or sugar for energy boosts
If you’re feeling unusually tired this summer, check in with yourself and with your healthcare provider.