Autumnal asthenia usually clears up on its own within a matter of days or a few weeks.

Autumnal asthenia: the reason why we feel more tired during this season

As the seasons change, many people experience persistent fatigue and tiredness. How can you relieve the symptoms of autumnal asthenia?

BY Compartir | 29 September 2026

The beginning of September marks the transition into fall and brings with it a number of changes that disrupt our routine: fewer hours of daylight, shorter days and changes in temperature. During these weeks, it is common to feel more tired than usual, with less energy or a greater craving for foods rich in carbohydrates and sugars.

This state of low spirits is known as autumnal asthenia, a common condition that occurs whilst the body adapts to the new season. Fortunately, it is a temporary phase whose symptoms can be easily alleviated with small changes to our daily routine.

 

What is autumnal asthenia?

Autumnal asthenia is a feeling of tiredness, apathy and weakness, both physical and mental, that occurs when the body readjusts to new environmental conditions and daily routines. Changes in daylight hours, temperature fluctuations and alterations to daily routines disrupt the body's biological rhythms, particularly the production of serotonin and melatonin, the hormones that regulate mood and sleep.

As a result, some people feel more tired, have lower spirits and lack vitality.

 

When is it autumnal asthenia and when is it not?

These are some of the symptoms associated with autumnal asthenia:

  • Fatigue or a general feeling of weakness.
  • Drowsiness.
  • Difficulty falling asleep.
  • Mood swings and irritability.
  • Anxiety.
  • Lack of interest or motivation.
  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Loss of appetite or an increased craving for foods rich in carbohydrates and sugars.
  • Headache.

Generalised fatigue is one of the main characteristics of autumnal asthenia, which is easily confused with ordinary tiredness. However, there are important differences between the two.

Ordinary tiredness usually occurs after a prolonged period of physical or mental exertion and generally disappears with rest. Autumnal asthenia, on the other hand, is linked to the body’s process of adapting to seasonal changes, particularly during autumn and spring. In this case, the exhaustion is prolonged and is accompanied by generalised weakness.

Furthermore, although autumnal asthenia is a mild and temporary condition, it is advisable to pay attention to the symptoms. If these interfere with daily activities, worsen over time or are accompanied by more serious symptoms, they could indicate an underlying health problem. In this case, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

 

How long do the effects of the change of season last?

Autumnal asthenia usually clears up on its own within a matter of days or a few weeks. Symptoms usually improve gradually as the body readjusts and adapts to the new environmental conditions. Added to this are some common autumn ailments, such as colds or flu, which can prolong the feeling of tiredness and malaise. 

For this reason, adopting healthy habits during this time of year can help the body adapt and aid in regaining energy and vitality.

 

Habits make all the difference

Autumnal fatigue does not require specific drug treatment and usually resolves itself. However, a few simple measures can help you cope better with this period of adjustment:

  • Maintain a balanced diet, rich in protein, fruit, vegetables and fibre, and limit your intake of sugars and saturated fats.
  • Take regular exercise as this promotes proper rest and the release of endorphins, substances that improve emotional wellbeing. 
  • Expose yourself to natural light every day. This helps regulate circadian rhythms and can mitigate the effects of the reduction in daylight hours following the summer.
  • Maintain regular sleep patterns to help the body adapt to the new cycles of light and darkness.
  • Set aside time for leisure and activities that promote wellbeing, whether that means spending time with family and friends or enjoying personal hobbies.

If symptoms persist for several months, become more severe or are accompanied by more serious symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. The specialist will assess the situation and determine whether any specific treatment or supplements are needed to improve emotional wellbeing. 

Check all issues of the magazine

Revista Compartir 25

Related articles

Eye health
These procedures were originally developed to treat specific eye conditions or defects that affected the appearance of the eye or visual health.

Changing eye colour is possible, but there are limitations

This technique was originally developed to correct iris defects and has become a dream for many people, although it carries risks to eyesight.

Digital wellness
Algunos investigadores sugieren que la dificultad para concentrarse también podría estar relacionada con la multitarea.

Why are we finding increasingly difficult to concentrate?

High levels of technology use are one of the main factors behind the lack of concentration among young people and adults.

Health in autumn
Returning to our daily routine involves a number of changes that can take their toll on the body

Boost your immune system to get back to your daily routine

After the holidays, the immune system can be affected by changes to your routine, sleep patterns and diet.