No Seasonal Spike in Fatigue: ‘Spring Tiredness’ Largely a Cultural Phenomenon

The persistent feeling of exhaustion many attribute to the changing seasons – often called “spring fatigue” – may be more cultural expectation than biological reality, according to a new study published in the Journal of Sleep Research. Researchers at the University of Basel and the University of Bern’s Inselspital found no empirical evidence to support the idea that people are demonstrably more tired in spring than at other times of the year. The findings challenge a widely held belief and could reshape how we understand seasonal variations in energy levels.

A Widespread Perception, But Is It Real?

For Dr. Christine Blume, a sleep researcher at the Center for Chronobiology of the University Psychiatric Clinics (UPK) and the University of Basel, the question of spring fatigue became particularly pressing due to frequent inquiries from journalists. “I always found that unsatisfactory,” Blume explained, referring to her previous inability to cite research on the phenomenon. This prompted a collaborative study with Dr. Albrecht Vorster from the University of Bern’s Inselspital, aiming to determine whether the subjective experience of spring fatigue aligned with measurable physiological data.

The study, which began in April 2024, involved an online survey of 418 participants who were contacted every six weeks for a year. Participants reported on their levels of exhaustion, daytime sleepiness, and sleep quality. Interestingly, at the study’s outset, roughly half of the participants believed they experienced spring fatigue. Still, detailed analysis of the collected data revealed no statistically significant increase in tiredness during the spring months. As reported by Medical Xpress, this discrepancy suggests that the perception of spring fatigue may be largely influenced by cultural expectations.

The Role of Daylight and Biological Rhythms

The researchers considered several potential biological explanations for spring fatigue, such as changes in blood pressure related to rising temperatures and fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly melatonin. However, they found little support for these hypotheses. “From a chronobiological point of view, What we have is completely implausible,” Blume stated, dismissing the hormone-related explanations. The study also examined whether the rate at which daylight hours increased in spring played a role, but found no correlation between the speed of change and participants’ reported exhaustion levels.

The body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, is known to be influenced by daylight exposure. Shorter days in winter can lead to increased tiredness and altered sleep patterns, a phenomenon supported by chronobiological research. As Medical Xpress reported in February 2026, individuals with a natural inclination towards later sleep schedules may locate winter particularly challenging. However, the study suggests that this effect reverses as days lengthen, and should, in fact, lead to increased alertness – a pattern not observed in the data.

A Self-Fulfilling Prophecy?

The study’s findings point to the possibility that “spring fatigue” operates as a kind of self-fulfilling prophecy. Because the term is so widely recognized, individuals may be more likely to attribute feelings of tiredness to this perceived seasonal phenomenon, even in the absence of any actual physiological change. The researchers suggest that societal acceptance of the concept creates a heightened awareness of fatigue during spring, leading people to interpret normal fluctuations in energy levels as evidence of “spring fatigue.”

Blume suggests that expectations surrounding spring also contribute to the perception of tiredness. “In spring, we may also feel that we need to be more active and take advantage of the good weather. If we can’t bring ourselves to do so, our expectations and our subjective energy level can be very different,” she explained. Attributing this discrepancy to spring fatigue provides a readily accepted explanation.

What Does This Mean for Those Feeling Tired?

While the study challenges the biological basis of spring fatigue, it doesn’t dismiss the experience of tiredness. The researchers emphasize that many people genuinely feel more fatigued during the transition from winter to spring. However, they suggest that this tiredness is likely due to a combination of factors, including lingering effects of shorter days, individual variations in sleep patterns, and psychological expectations.

The researchers recommend practical steps for managing fatigue, regardless of the season. These include maximizing exposure to daylight, maintaining a regular exercise routine, and prioritizing sufficient sleep. According to the University of Basel, these strategies can help regulate the body’s natural rhythms and improve overall energy levels.

Implications for Future Research and Public Understanding

This study represents a significant step towards a more nuanced understanding of seasonal variations in fatigue. By providing empirical data, it challenges a long-held belief and opens the door for further research into the psychological and social factors that contribute to the perception of spring fatigue. The researchers hope that their findings will inform future media coverage of the topic and encourage a more evidence-based approach to discussing seasonal health concerns.

Moving forward, continued monitoring of sleep patterns and fatigue levels across different seasons will be crucial. Further research could explore the role of cultural factors in shaping perceptions of fatigue and investigate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving energy levels during seasonal transitions. The study authors also suggest that future research should consider individual differences in chronotype (morningness/eveningness) and their impact on seasonal fatigue.

For individuals experiencing persistent fatigue, it’s critical to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions. While spring fatigue may not be a scientifically validated syndrome, unexplained tiredness should always be investigated to ensure optimal health and well-being.