This is the psychology behind 'lockdown fatigue' - and how to combat it

While most of us are far less active under lockdown than in our usual daily lives, many have reported feeling strangely fatigued.

Anecdotal reports of so-called 'lockdown fatigue' refer to the phenomenon of feeling tired and groggy, in spite of having lower activity levels over the past few weeks.

The experience has led to confusion among those affected, and appears to have been reported by people around the world - suggesting that the explanation may have something to do with the way we're wired.

So what's the psychology behind lockdown fatigue? We asked the experts.

Reduced exposure to natural daylight

One of the reasons why lockdown may be causing tiredness is that we're spending time indoors and receiving less natural light than we usually would.

Environmental Psychologist Lee Chambers explains, "We have been receiving less natural light through lockdown due to restrictions, and it’s that light exposure that signals the neurological process to become fully awake and alert".

Poor quality sleep

Many people have reported struggling to sleep during lockdown - an issue undoubtedly heightened by feelings of fear and anxiety.

However, even those who do manage to get off easily may be experiencing poor quality sleep, increasing the probability of daytime fatigue.

Therapist Sally Baker says that intense dreams or nightmares may be causing poor quality sleep.

"Those who slept like content babes are often reporting fitful and broken nights as their brain tries to process what’s happening during the REM state of their