Your guide to tackling tiredness

Exhaustion is an all too common complaint, but fortunately many self-care strategies can help you to improve your get up and go.

Fatigue is characteristic of many health conditions, including diabetes, anemia, depression and heart disease, so it's essential to consult a healthcare professional if you're feeling worn-out all the time for no apparent reason. Many prescription drugs can also cause fatigue, so if you start to feel exhausted after commencing a new drug treatment, inform your doctor as he or she may be able to recommend an alternative medication.

The prospect of working out may not be at the forefront of your mind when you're lacking in energy, but studies indicate that exercise may play a key role in the fight against fatigue. You don't need to join the gym to boost your energy levels – a gentle stroll around the block should be enough to reduce your tiredness.

A poorly-lit workspace can signal to your brain that it's time to take it easy. To tell your body that it's time to take action, open the blinds and let natural light flood into your home and/or office.

Eating small meals often can ward off fatigue by preventing midday blood sugar crashes. To sustain your energy levels, always eat a hearty breakfast and include a generous helping of complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, in every meal.

Dehydration will zap your energy levels, making it harder for you to stay alert both at home and at work. Begin your day with a glass of water and continue to sip water at regular intervals throughout the course of the day.

Technology may make your life more productive but if you leave the computer and other technology on all day and night, it may interfere with your sleep at night. To get into the right frame of mind, turn off all technology at least an hour before retiring to bed.

If you've been falling short on shut-eye, keep to a regular sleep schedule and go to bed early enough to enjoy a relaxing night’s rest. If nuisance noise poses a problem, a white noise machine or soothing music through earphones may help you to sleep better.