Why do you feel tired

Know how and why chronic fatigue happens

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Most youngsters these days frequently complain of fatigue. Dr Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant, internal medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, says: ‘This happens due to multiple interrelated factors in our modern lifestyle. Irregular sleep patterns, often driven by academic pressure, social media use, and screen time before bed, significantly disrupt their natural circadian rhythm. Poor dietary habits, including excessive consumption of processed foods and irregular meal timing, fail to provide sustained energy throughout the day. Physical inactivity, largely due to sedentary behaviours like prolonged sitting during classes and screen-based entertainment, reduces stamina and energy levels. Additionally, psychological stressors such as academic performance pressure, social expectations, and future career concerns contribute to mental exhaustion, which manifests as physical fatigue. Environmental factors like pollution and indoor lifestyles with limited exposure to natural light and fresh air can also impact energy levels. The combination of these factors, along with potential underlying health issues like vitamin D deficiency, iron deficiency, or hormonal imbalances, creates a perfect storm for chronic fatigue among younger populations.’

How does fatigue manifest itself?