Weekly Adult Primary Care Q&A with Temima Levine, FNP

“Why Am I Always Tired?”

Feeling tired all the time is one of the most common concerns adults bring up during primary care visits. While busy schedules and lack of sleep can play a role, ongoing fatigue can sometimes be your body’s way of signaling that something deeper is going on.

Is being tired all the time normal?

A: Occasional tiredness is normal — especially after a stressful week or poor sleep. But if you constantly feel exhausted, drained, unmotivated, or like you “can’t catch up” on energy even after resting, it’s worth looking into. Persistent fatigue should not be ignored.

What are some common medical causes of fatigue?

 A: Fatigue can have many causes, including:

 • Iron deficiency or anemia

 • Low vitamin B12 or vitamin D

 • Thyroid problems

 • Poor sleep or sleep apnea

 • Stress, anxiety, or depression

 • Dehydration

 • Diabetes or blood sugar issues

 • Certain medications

 • Lack of exercise or poor nutrition

 Sometimes even mild imbalances can greatly affect energy levels.

 Can stress and mental health really make me physically tired?

 A: Absolutely. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can affect sleep quality, concentration, appetite, and energy. Many adults don’t realize emotional burnout can show up physically as fatigue, headaches, body aches, or difficulty functioning day to day.

 When should I see a doctor about fatigue?

 A: You should schedule an evaluation if your fatigue:

 • Lasts more than a few weeks

 • Interferes with daily life

 • Happens despite adequate sleep

 • Comes with dizziness, shortness of breath, weight changes, headaches, or mood changes

 • Causes trouble focusing or functioning normally

 A simple office visit and bloodwork can often help identify the cause.

 What can I do to improve my energy levels?

 A: Small changes can make a big difference. Focus on:

 • Getting consistent sleep

 • Staying hydrated

 • Eating balanced meals with protein and iron-rich foods

 • Managing stress

 • Exercising regularly

 • Limiting excessive caffeine and screen time before bed

 Most importantly, don’t ignore ongoing fatigue. Your body may be trying to tell you something.

 Bottom Line:

 Feeling tired all the time is common — but it’s not always “just life.” Fatigue can sometimes point to underlying medical or mental health concerns that deserve attention.

 📍 Temima Levine, FNP

 Lev Family Health & Lev Pediatrics

 📞 Call today to schedule your annual wellness visit!