Medically reviewed and approved by a board-certified member
Sleep / Sleep Disorders / Insomnia

Tired All Day, Wide Awake at Night: How to Get Your Energy Right

By Frank L. Jaksch JrTwitter Profile | Updated: Monday, 18 June 2018 20:00 UTC
BS
Login to get unlimited free access
Tired All Day, Wide Awake at Night: How to Get Your Energy Right
Tired All Day, Wide Awake at Night: How to Get Your Energy Right

We are all guilty of pushing ourselves too hard and burning the candle on both ends. But while blaming being tired on a too-hectic lifestyle is commonplace, there is a difference between feeling sleepy and being continuously exhausted.

Maintaining a consistent sleeping routine is essential for your well-being and for bringing about all aspects of a healthy life. Your sleep cycle can make or break your life, which is why it can be frustrating when the pattern is off.

If you are one of the many people who find it challenging to wake up in the morning and then spend the rest of the day feeling exhausted, you may also find it impossible to shut down and sleep soundly in the evening.

How do you fix this seemingly endless, unhealthy and unhappy cycle? Here are some possible reasons for your exhaustion and ways for you to get your energy right.

Reasons for Exhaustion

There are a variety of reasons why you may be suffering from exhaustion, and the causes are going to be varied for every person. However, here are six common reasons.

- A crazy work schedule

Certain work schedules severely disrupt sleep cycles. If you work in a bar, or have overnight or rotating shifts, then there is a high chance your sleeping routine is non-existent. However, working long days or being severely stressed can also disrupt your ability to shut off at night.

- Lifestyle hours that disturb your sleep cycle

If you are a new parent or are overseeing a busy social life, then you probably don't have a set "going to bed" time. Burning the midnight oil over the weekend and then sleeping in will lead to a struggle to fall asleep on a Sunday night, which then directs you to a sleep-deprived Monday morning.

- Constant travel

Traveling is exhausting and is a sure way to say "bye" to any semblance of a routine. Jet lag can wreak havoc on your body and can cause tiredness for a long time after the flight has touched the ground.

- Medical reasons/illnesses

There are several medical-related reasons that you may be suffering from constant exhaustion. Problems such as anemia, thyroid disease, diabetes, depression, and sleep apnea all affect someone's ability to sleep.

- Stimulants like drugs, alcohol, coffee, etc.

Consuming too many stimulants or digesting them at the wrong time are guaranteed means to ruin your sleeping schedule. Don't drink coffee six hours before bedtime, and stop sipping alcohol three to four hours before you try to snooze.

The truth is that you are going to have to be honest with yourself about your lifestyle and the causes of your exhaustion. Only you know how you spend your days, what you consume, and the lifestyle you are living. Being honest with yourself is the first step to tackling the problem.

Fixes for Exhaustion

- Exercise

While you may think that exercising is the last thing you want to do when you are exhausted, it actually is a beneficial way to maintain a sleep schedule and will help you to feel less tired in the long run. Even if you only do a daily 30-minute walk, you will have an energy boost, and then will be more likely to be able to fall asleep at night.

- Natural caffeine

A natural caffeine supplement not only battles exhaustion but also gives you improved cognitive functions, helps with blood sugar and weight management, and encourages healthy aging.

- LIfestyle and environmental changes

Stop checking your phone while in bed, cut down on your alcohol consumption, reduce stress, and eat regular meals. Make sure your bedroom is tidy, purchase some soothing candles and pillow sprays, and implement a night-time routine to help you wind down and relax.

How do you deal with exhaustion? What lifestyle changes have helped you get better quality sleep? Let us know your tips and tricks in the comments below.

Was this page helpful?
(1 Vote)
End of the article