Feeling Constantly Tired? Sleep Might Not Be the Only Reason, Expert Says

Many people wake up tired despite getting enough sleep—and lack of sleep may not be the reason. Psychologist Shelby Harris explains that fatigue can stem from issues like mood, hormones, or poor sleep quality, not just sleep duration.

“When we think about tired and sleepiness, they’re different issues,” said Shelby Harris, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in behavioral sleep medicine. “Tired is this feeling of like, ‘I have no energy.’ Sleepiness is the irrepressible need for sleep.”

A woman sleeps peacefully in bed wearing a pink sleep mask, surrounded by white pillows and bedding. | Source: Pexels

Harris outlined five non-sleep-related factors that can contribute to persistent fatigue:

Mood Issues: Conditions like depression and anxiety can lead to low energy and disrupted sleep, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Poor Quality Sleep: Disorders such as sleep apnea, sleepwalking, or even snoring can degrade sleep quality, regardless of duration.

Inconsistent Sleep-Wake Schedule: Frequently shifting bedtime or wake time by over an hour—known as “social jet lag”—can disrupt energy levels.

Hormonal Changes: Women experiencing hormonal fluctuations, including those related to menstruation or menopause, may feel more drained.

Medications: Certain medications, including sleep aids, antidepressants, antihistamines, and allergy treatments, can increase fatigue.

A woman looks tired as she reaches to turn off a gold alarm clock while lying in bed. | Source: Pexels

“If you’re someone who has done good sleep hygiene, consistent sleep-wake timing [etc.] for a few weeks and it’s not making a change, then talk with your doctor for sure,” Harris said.