If you’ve returned to work or school routines this year feeling unusually exhausted, foggy, or out of sync, you’re not alone. Many patients tell us they expected to feel refreshed after the holidays, yet instead they’re struggling with poor sleep, low energy, difficulty concentrating, or gradual weight gain despite eating well and staying active. It’s easy to put this down to stress or a busy schedule, but sometimes there’s more going on.

The start of the year is a common time for underlying health issues to become more noticeable. Changes in routine, sleep patterns, and stress levels can uncover things that have been quietly building for months. Hormonal changes, particularly in women in their late 30s and 40s, can affect sleep, mood, and metabolism. Thyroid problems can cause fatigue, brain fog, and weight changes. Low iron levels are also very common and can leave you feeling drained, short of breath, or unable to exercise like you used to.

Sleep is another key piece of the puzzle. Even small disruptions to sleep quality can have a big impact on energy, appetite, and concentration. If you’re waking unrefreshed, relying heavily on caffeine, or feeling wired but tired, it’s worth talking about. Stress itself can play a role too, especially when it becomes long-term and affects hormones, digestion, and immune health.