Understanding "adrenal fatigue" and what might really be going on
Late nights, screens, shift work or broken sleep slowly drain your reserves.
More likely if: you wake unrefreshed or get under 7 hours.
Anxiety and depression often show up as exhaustion and fog, not just worry or sadness.
More likely if: you feel flat, on-edge or overwhelmed.
Common — around 1 in 5 women of childbearing age. Tires you even before anaemia shows on a blood test.
More likely if: heavy periods, a plant-based diet, or you're a blood donor.
A slow thyroid slows everything — energy, mood, concentration and weight.
More likely if: feeling cold, constipation, dry skin or weight gain.
Breathing pauses during sleep mean you never get true rest, however long you're in bed.
More likely if: you snore, or doze off during the day.
Energy crashes, sugar cravings and post-meal slumps can point to metabolic health issues.
More likely if: crashes after meals, or strong sugar cravings.
Regular hours, screens off early, a wind-down routine
Iron-rich foods and regular meals through the day
A short daily walk lifts energy over time
Protect downtime; talk things through
Especially in the afternoon and evening
7-day energy tracker — Rate your energy 1–5 each day for a week and bring it in — patterns are often the biggest clue.
