Why Am I Always So Tired?

Thanks for asking this important question! Feeling tired all the time can be really frustrating. The most common reason people feel sleepy during the day is because they aren’t getting enough quality sleep at night. But don’t worry, there are some simple tips that can help.

How to Get Better Sleep

Here are a few things to improve your sleep:

• Stick to a Sleep Schedule
  Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps set your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
• Limit Screen Time Before Bed
  Try to avoid electronics (like your phone, tablet, or TV) for at least an hour before going to sleep. The blue light from screens tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, making it harder to wind down.
• Get 7-9 Hours of Sleep
  Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. This is the sweet spot for most teens and will help you feel more energized during the day.
• Cut Back on Caffeine
  Caffeine can stay in your system for hours, so it’s best to avoid it after 3 p.m. Be careful with energy drinks, too—they’re packed with caffeine and can mess with your sleep.

For more tips check out our health guide on sleep.

Still Tired After 9 Hours of Sleep?

If you’re getting consistent sleep and still feel exhausted, it’s time to see a healthcare provider. This could be a sign of an underlying issue.

• Sleep Disorders
  Some people have sleep disorders like narcolepsy (which causes you to fall asleep suddenly) or sleep apnea (which interrupts your breathing while you sleep). A sleep specialist can help diagnose and treat these conditions.
• Other Medical Conditions
  Sometimes being tired all the time can be due to medical conditions like anemia (low red blood cells). Your doctor can run some tests to find out if this is the case and suggest treatment options.