Fatigue with ADHD can occur due to hyperactivity, sleep issues, and anxiety, among other causes.
People most often think of the restless, frenetic, and impulsive side of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But these challenges of the condition can take their toll. If you feel like your batteries are constantly running on empty, you’re not the only one!
Fatigue isn’t a symptom doctors consider when making an ADHD diagnosis. Still, many people with ADHD experience fatigue.
Keep reading to learn more about what causes fatigue in people with ADHD and what you can do to manage it.
So why exactly are you exhausted? Here are some potential reasons for your ADHD-induced fatigue:
- Hyperactivity: One of the hallmark symptoms of ADHD, hyperactivity can cause restlessness and excessive movement. It can also make it more difficult for you to get to sleep at night.
- Hyperfocus: It can feel great to get so engrossed in a project, but people with ADHD often forget to eat proper meals or take breaks during periods of hyperfocus.
- Sleep issues: Common sleep disorders that co-occur with ADHD include insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome.
- Anxiety: Anxiety disorders also often co-occur with ADHD. Anxiety can
worsen ADHD symptoms andincrease fatigue . - Depression: Another of the most common comorbidities of ADHD, depression can also contribute to fatigue.
- Medications: Fatigue is a common side effect of ADHD medications. Stimulants like Adderall or Vyvanse can cause you to feel drowsy due to their calming effect or cause a “crash” after they wear off.
- Dopamine: Some research links ADHD to low dopamine levels, though more studies are needed. Dopamine also plays a key role in motivation.
- Tryptophan: Newer research suggests that tryptophan, an amino acid, may play a role in inattentive type ADHD. Tryptophan is also a key contributor to fatigue.
ADHD and brain fog
With ADHD, you might experience mental fatigue along with physical fatigue. It might feel as if your thinking has slowed, or you find it more difficult to remember things. People often refer to this as “brain fog.”
Read more: “What to Know About ADHD and Brain Fog”
So, what to do? Everyone’s needs will be different, so check in with medical professionals to strategize around what habits will be most effective for you. But here are some general ones to get you started:
Find effective stress management techniques
People find stress relief in different ways. You mind find it helpful to:
- work extra stress out of your body with exercise or yoga
- find some quiet time with meditation
- participate in cognitive behavioral therapy
Energy levels are highly dependent on the ability to stabilize stress and anxiety in conditions like ADHD.
Cut back on the caffeine
According to 2024 research, more than a couple of cups of coffee a day can trigger and increase the severity of anxiety symptoms in some people. Reducing your caffeine intake may help manage anxiety levels in ADHD, which can, in turn, help reduce fatigue.
Figure out a sleep routine that works
Cut the lights and electronics, calibrate that thermostat, and get into bed at roughly the same time every night.
If changes to your sleep hygiene still don’t help, you may have a sleep disorder that requires medical intervention. Talk with a primary care physician or sleep specialist.
Talk about your medications
It can take time to find the right medication and dosage to manage your ADHD symptoms. If you find that your medication is contributing to your fatigue, talk with your doctor. They may consider adjusting the dosage or trying a different medication.
What is ADHD burnout?
ADHD burnout occurs when you become physically, mentally, or emotionally overwhelmed. It’s not an official term, but it describes the exhaustion that comes with trying to cope with ADHD symptoms.
According to the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), ADHD burnout is more common in people with unmanaged ADHD.
Read more: “How to Recognize and Cope with ADHD Burnout”
Fatigue may not be a direct symptom of ADHD. However, various ADHD symptoms and comorbidities, like hyperactivity, anxiety, and sleep disorders, often contribute to fatigue. The medications you take may also play a role.
Managing stress and making the most out of your rest and relaxation can help reduce daily fatigue. If problems persist, talk with your doctor.