Have you heard of TATT (Tired All The Time)?

Lots of people are coming to counselling and expressing a level of tiredness that they just can’t get on top of. When tiredness continues long term, that is not normal and is probably stopping you enjoying life. Unexplained tiredness is one of the most common reasons people see their GP. Maybe review the four pillars to a healthy lifestyle first, they are:

1)         Diet/hydration

We all know what we should be doing, but sometimes bad habits creep in. Are we eating whole foods v UPF? Are we snacking on good foods and not junk? Is our portion control ok? Don’t eat too close to bedtime.

Maybe plan meals rather than grab something on the run? Regarding hydration, making sure you know your caffeine limit and no caffeine close to bedtime. Check if that glass of wine is not turning into a bottle of wine.

2)         Exercise

Any movement is better than nothing, but you can overdo it, even Olympians rest at times. It might be better to have a rest rather than hit the gym early.  Does your exercise routine need a review to maximise your efforts?

If exercise is not your thing, consider everyday tasks that you could power up to make them more. Or commit to some simple stretching, a gentle swim, walk to the nearest park bench with a book, but try to encourage yourself to move a little more.

3)         Sleep

Stop scrolling before bed!  Try reading a book or listening to music rather than using screens. Go to bed and get up at the same time every day.  The body likes the routine and it’s not possible to catch up on sleep, so treat it as a priority. Your body needs rest to recover and does some amazing things to heal itself whilst you sleep.

Also think about having a cool, uncluttered room. Get some advice if you (or someone you sleep with) snores or grinds their teeth. Try not to nap too often/for long, as this affects the night sleep.

4)         Socialisation

As humans we need contact with people but know your levels. If your social battery is good, get out there and have some fun. If the battery is low, prioritise less events to allow yourself time to recharge.

How much are you juggling if you think about work, home, family, friends, hobbies etc. Be careful to not over commit and burn yourself out.

Also think about the psychological causes of tiredness as stress can impact life. The daily grind can cause a huge amount of stress, like the logistics of getting everyone to all the commitments is hard. Remember positive and negative things contain stress eg planning a wedding, moving house, work pressure, bereavement and let’s not even think about the global situation. 

It might be worth exploring with your GP if all of these things are leading to depression or anxiety. Of course, there could be something physically wrong with the body, and a range of tests to check can be agreed with the GP.

Page published and last update: 8 May 2024

https://hadwenhealth.co.uk/services/patient-information/feeling-tired-all-the-time/