Do you often wake up feeling unrefreshed, drained throughout the day, or mentally foggy no matter how much you rest? If so, you might be experiencing a condition commonly referred to as “Tired All the Time” (TATT) – a symptom that affects millions and can severely impact your quality of life.
What Is TATT (Tired All the Time)?
Unlike normal tiredness after a long day, TATT is a persistent and chronic sense of fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest or sleep. It’s more than just feeling “a bit low on energy” – it can make daily routines feel overwhelming and may be a sign of something deeper.
➡️ In fact, around 1 in 10 GP consultations in the UK relate to people reporting constant tiredness.
Key Signs and Characteristics
If you’re experiencing TATT, you may notice:
- Constant low energy and motivation
- Physical and mental exhaustion
- Struggles with everyday tasks like concentrating or staying organised
- A general sense of being “run down” without an obvious cause
This type of fatigue can creep in slowly, making it harder to pinpoint when it started — but it should never be ignored.
What Causes Tiredness That Doesn’t Go Away?
There isn’t a single cause of TATT. In many cases, it’s the result of a combination of factors, including:
1. Medical Conditions
Tiredness can be an early symptom of a number of health issues, such as:
- Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
- Anaemia (low iron or B12 levels)
- Diabetes
- Liver or kidney conditions
- Vitamin D or folic acid deficiency
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g. low testosterone)
A simple blood test can help rule out many of these conditions.
2. Mental Health Challenges
Stress, anxiety, depression, and emotional burnout all take a toll on your energy levels. Mental fatigue is just as real as physical exhaustion – and it often lingers longer.
3. Lifestyle Factors
- Poor sleep quality or irregular sleep patterns
- Long working hours or lack of work-life balance
- No time for relaxation or recovery
- Poor diet and dehydration
Even if your physical health is fine, these lifestyle elements can leave you feeling constantly depleted.
4. ADHD and Chronic Fatigue
Fatigue is common among adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The constant mental effort required to stay focused, stay organised, or manage emotions can be draining. Many also struggle with sleep disturbances, which compounds the issue.
How Does TATT Affect Daily Life?
Living with unrelenting tiredness can feel like carrying a heavy load you can’t put down. You may find:
- Simple chores or conversations feel overwhelming
- You become more irritable or emotionally reactive
- Work and personal relationships suffer
- You rely more on caffeine or stimulants just to get through the day
- In ADHD, it may feel like an uphill battle to maintain routine and structure
What Should You Do?
If you’re constantly feeling tired, don’t dismiss it or try to “push through.” Take the following steps:
1. Reflect on Lifestyle
- Are you sleeping enough?
- Are your stress levels consistently high?
- Do you give yourself time to rest and recharge?
2. Seek Medical Advice
Consulting a GP can help identify or rule out medical causes. At Niva Medical Clinic, we often start with a comprehensive blood test and full health review to understand your personal picture.
3. Address Mental Health
Emotional exhaustion is real. Therapy, counselling, or stress management techniques could make a difference.
4. For ADHD-Related Fatigue
If you suspect ADHD, or already have a diagnosis, strategies include:
- Sleep hygiene improvements
- Managing overstimulation
- Reviewing any medication side effects
- Building consistent routines
Final Thoughts
TATT is not just a feeling – it’s a real and valid symptom that deserves attention. Whether it’s medical, psychological, or lifestyle-related, you don’t have to live in a constant state of exhaustion.
A full health assessment can uncover hidden issues and guide you towards the right support. If tiredness is impacting your life, don’t wait — take the first step towards feeling like yourself again.
