Tired or Truly Fatigued? Here’s How to Tell the Difference (and Why It Matters for Mums)

As mums, we often say “I’m tired”—sometimes it feels like a constant state of being. But what if the exhaustion you’re experiencing isn’t just ordinary tiredness? What if no matter how much you rest, you still feel drained, foggy, and running on empty? That’s when it might be more than tiredness—it could be fatigue.

Understanding the difference matters, because how you respond to tiredness versus fatigue can completely change how your body recovers and how you feel day to day. Let’s break it down.

What is Tiredness?

Tiredness is temporary. It’s your body’s way of saying, “I need a break.”

✅ It comes from exertion, poor sleep, or stress
✅ You can usually push through
✅ You feel better after a nap or a good night’s sleep

When you’re simply tired, rest and self-care usually bring you back to balance.

What is Fatigue?

Fatigue, on the other hand, is a full-body experience. It’s not something a nap or a coffee can fix.

❌ It doesn’t go away with rest
❌ It’s often unpredictable
❌ It may come with brain fog, mood changes, or a complete energy crash after activity

Signs You Might Be Fatigued

• You wake up exhausted, even after sleeping

• You feel like you’re running on 1% battery

• Movement or activity triggers a crash 24–72 hours later

• You feel foggy, heavy, or wired-but-tired

Why Fatigue Happens

Fatigue can be linked to:

• Perimenopause

• Postnatal depletion

• Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions

• Chronic stress and nervous system burnout

When fatigue is mistaken for tiredness and you just keep “pushing through,” you risk deeper burnout, longer recovery crashes, and feeling worse over time.

How to Work With Your Body Instead of Against It

The key isn’t to power through—it’s to listen and respond differently.

✨ Pace your energy
✨ Try gentle movement and nervous system support
✨ Incorporate breathwork and intentional rest
✨ Track your crashes to spot patterns

These shifts help your body recover and adapt, instead of burning out.

You’re Not Lazy—You’re Fatigued

If this sounds familiar, know this: it’s not in your head. Fatigue is real, valid, and deserves proper support—without guilt, shame, or self-blame.

Motherhood asks a lot of us. But you don’t have to run on empty or ignore the signs your body is sending.

💌 Want support that honours your energy instead of draining it?
Reach out to chat about ways to move differently—so you can feel supported, not depleted.