Understanding Autumn Fatigue: A Study on Working Adults
As the seasons shift from summer to autumn, many working adults in Japan report feeling unwell, a phenomenon commonly referred to as 'autumn fatigue' or "aki bate". This article delves into the recent survey conducted by the Iron Connection Medical Corporation, which reveals that a staggering 82% of participants have experienced symptoms related to this seasonal condition.
What is Autumn Fatigue?
During autumn, adults often find themselves grappling with a sense of lethargy, decreased appetite, and difficulty waking up in the mornings—symptoms that suggest an increase in health issues during this time of year. Factors such as accumulated stress from the summer heat, fluctuations between indoor air conditioning and the cooler outdoors, and sudden temperature drops contribute to disturbances in the autonomic nervous system, leading to what we recognize as autumn fatigue.
Survey Overview
Conducted from September 1 to September 20, 2025, this nationwide survey targeted 300 working adults aged 20 to 50 years old. The results shed light on the extent of this issue and highlight the need for awareness and preventative measures.
Key Survey Findings:
- - Prevalence of Symptoms: Approximately 82% of participants reported having experienced symptoms of autumn fatigue, making it clear that the changing seasons impact many in the workforce.
- - Common Symptoms: The most frequently reported symptoms included:
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Lethargy and fatigue: 74.1%
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Poor sleep quality: 52.3%
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Loss of appetite: 47.8%
- Other reported symptoms included headaches, mood swings, and gastrointestinal issues.
Causes of Autumn Fatigue
The survey also inquired about the underlying causes of these symptoms. Respondents highlighted two major contributing factors:
1.
Accumulated Fatigue from Summer: 68.2% of participants cited that lingering exhaustion from the hot months influences their health during autumn.
2.
Temperature Fluctuations: Additionally, 61.4% attributed their symptoms to the temperature disparities experienced in the mornings and evenings, accentuated by the transition from summer to autumn.
Response Strategies
While many are aware of their fatigue, a concerning 68.8% of survey respondents reported that they do not take any specific measures to combat autumn fatigue. Only about 31% indicated that they actively pursue strategies, such as:
- - Prioritizing sufficient sleep (72.4%)
- - Maintaining a balanced diet (58.3%)
- - Engaging in moderate exercise (43.6%)
- - Taking baths to warm their bodies (38.5%)
- - Incorporating supplements into their diet (24.7%)
Seeking Help
Interestingly, only 9% of survey participants have considered consulting a medical professional regarding their autumn fatigue symptoms. This suggests that most individuals either endure their symptoms or attempt to manage them independently.
Summarizing the Findings
The impact of autumn fatigue is evident, as nearly 80% of working adults experience discomforts that stem from the seasonal change. Particularly, the perception of fatigue dominates the responses. Despite the known reasons for this affliction, only a fraction of those affected engage in proactive health measures, indicating a disconnect that could lead to long-term health issues if not addressed.
Recommendations
As autumn approaches, it's crucial for individuals to reflect on their health habits. The accompanying fatigue can be a signal from the body that it's time to reassess lifestyle choices and implement necessary adjustments. If symptoms persist, seeking guidance from healthcare professionals becomes essential, as long-lasting fatigue could hint at more serious health concerns.
About IC Clinic
The IC Clinic offers specialized care from dermatologists and plastic surgeons, addressing a variety of concerns that often accompany autumn fatigue, including skin issues and stress-related ailments. Additionally, we provide intravenous treatments aimed at enhancing vitality and boosting the immune system—fitting solutions for busy professionals striving to maintain their health.
Don't hesitate to consult with us if you're experiencing prolonged symptoms. At IC Clinic, we make your health our priority and are dedicated to supporting you through seasonal transitions.