Fatigue is one of the most common complaints people bring to their doctors, yet it remains one of the most complex and misunderstood symptoms. While it may seem like a straightforward feeling of tiredness, fatigue is more than just needing a good night’s sleep. It’s a persistent sense of exhaustion—mental, physical, or both—that interferes with daily functioning. For some, fatigue is temporary and tied to a specific event or lifestyle factor, but for others, it becomes a chronic and frustrating experience that affects every part of life.
So, what actually causes fatigue? The answer is multifaceted. One of the most common triggers is lack of quality sleep. In our fast-paced world, people often sacrifice rest for productivity, and over time, sleep deprivation can take a toll on both the body and the mind. Even when people do spend enough time in bed, conditions like sleep apnea or insomnia can prevent restorative rest, leaving them drained the next day.
Another major contributor to fatigue is stress. When the body is constantly in a state of fight-or-flight, it burns through energy reserves at a rapid pace. This kind of chronic stress not only exhausts the nervous system but can also throw off hormonal balance, especially involving cortisol, which regulates alertness and energy. Over time, this can lead to adrenal fatigue, a state where the body struggles to keep up with the demands placed upon it.
Diet and nutrition also play critical roles in energy levels. Skipping meals, relying heavily on processed foods, or not getting enough essential nutrients like iron, B vitamins, or magnesium can all contribute to low energy. Dehydration is another surprisingly common trigger; even mild dehydration can cause sluggishness and brain fog. On the flip side, consuming too much caffeine or sugar can lead to temporary highs followed by inevitable crashes, leaving the body in a rollercoaster of energy peaks and valleys.
Medical conditions are also a significant source of fatigue. Chronic illnesses such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, anemia, and autoimmune diseases can all present with fatigue as a primary symptom. Even viral infections like mononucleosis or long COVID are known to cause lingering exhaustion. Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, often manifest physically, with fatigue being one of the most prominent symptoms.
At CARESPACE Health+Wellness, addressing fatigue means taking a whole-person approach. Our kinesiologists in Kitchener and Waterloo work with clients to design personalized movement programs that support energy levels rather than deplete them. Regular physical activity, when done mindfully and in balance with recovery, has been shown to boost energy, improve sleep, and regulate stress hormones. CARESPACE kinesiologists take the time to assess clients’ needs and capacities, ensuring that movement is supportive, not overwhelming.
Naturopathic doctors at CARESPACE are trained to identify underlying health imbalances that may be contributing to fatigue. Through comprehensive assessments and lab testing, they can uncover issues such as hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or gut health concerns. Treatments may include herbal medicine, supplementation, acupuncture, and lifestyle coaching, all aimed at restoring balance and vitality.
Dietitians and nutritionists at CARESPACE also play a key role in helping individuals understand how their eating habits may be impacting their energy levels. They work one-on-one with clients to develop sustainable nutrition plans that stabilize blood sugar, optimize nutrient intake, and support long-term wellness. Whether it’s addressing food sensitivities with fatigue, planning balanced meals, or creating strategies for mindful eating, dietitians provide the tools people need to feel nourished and energized.
Fatigue can be frustrating, but it’s not something you have to accept as your “normal.” By identifying the root causes and working with a supportive healthcare team, it’s possible to reclaim your energy and improve your quality of life, especially when fatigue won’t go away on its own. CARESPACE offers a collaborative and compassionate environment where healing is approached from all angles—mind, body, and lifestyle.
Want clear answers? Our Fatigue Overview breaks down everything you need to know.
