Why Anxiety Can Make You Feel So Tired
Understanding the Link Between Worry and Fatigue
When most people think about anxiety, they picture restlessness, racing thoughts, or feeling on edge. But one of the most overlooked symptoms of anxiety is fatigue. Many clients are surprised when they realize that their ongoing tiredness isn’t just “being lazy” or “burned out” — it’s their body reacting to stress.
Let’s take a closer look at why anxiety can make you feel so drained, both mentally and physically.
01. Your Body Is Constantly on Alert
When you experience anxiety, your body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These chemicals are meant to prepare you to handle danger — your natural fight, flight, or freeze response.
The problem is that modern-day stressors often don’t go away quickly. When your system stays on high alert for too long, your body burns through energy just trying to stay ready for the “what ifs.” The result? Exhaustion.
02. Muscle Tension and Restlessness Wear You Down
Anxiety often shows up in the body as tension — tight shoulders, clenched jaw, or a sense of being unable to relax. Even subtle restlessness or fidgeting uses energy over time. It’s like your body is running a marathon you never signed up for.
03. Anxiety Interrupts Restful Sleep
Racing thoughts, replaying the day, or worrying about tomorrow can make falling asleep difficult — and staying asleep even harder. Poor sleep quality means your body doesn’t fully recharge overnight, leaving you tired before the day even begins.
04. Mental Overload Drains Your Focus
Anxiety often means your mind is constantly on duty — scanning for danger, replaying conversations, or preparing for the worst. This mental overactivity takes enormous energy and can leave you feeling mentally foggy or emotionally spent.
05. Avoidance Creates an Energy Imbalance
When fatigue and worry lead to avoiding activities you once enjoyed, your energy levels dip even lower. This can create a cycle: the less energy you have, the more you avoid, and the more fatigue takes hold.
Breaking that cycle begins with noticing the pattern — and gently reintroducing activities that give you a sense of calm or joy.
Bringing Awareness and Compassion
When fatigue comes along with anxiety, it’s not a sign that you’re weak or unmotivated — it’s your body’s way of saying, “I’ve been working hard to keep you safe.”
Your system has simply been in overdrive, trying to protect you from stress. The good news is that once you understand how anxiety uses up your energy, you can begin making small, gentle shifts that help restore balance.
A few deep breaths, a short walk, or simply pausing to check in with yourself can go a long way toward helping your mind and body recharge.
Over time, those small moments of care really do add up — helping you feel steadier, calmer, and more at ease in your day.
Gentle Reminder…
You don’t have to fix everything at once. Healing from anxiety-related fatigue is about small, steady steps, not perfection.
Each time you pause to breathe, stretch, or notice what your body needs, you’re teaching your system that it’s safe to rest. Those moments of care may feel small — but they are powerful.
Rovena Sondhaus, MA, LMHC, CTP
Sondhaus Counseling Services, LLC
