Understanding fatigue: a psychological framework for health and performance

Fatigue is a multidimensional phenomenon with profound implications for performance, health, and wellbeing. Its complexity means that no single discipline can adequately explain its causes or management, highlighting the need for integrative approaches. This article introduces the F.L.A.M.E.S. framework, a psychological model that integrates self-report, physiological, emotional, and contextual perspectives on fatigue. The framework combines validated assessment tools with evidence-based management strategies including goal setting, motivational self-talk, attentional control, and emotion regulation and embeds these within proactive, reactive, and preventative approaches. Applications are illustrated through case studies in sport, healthcare, and education, showing how the model can be co-constructed with practitioners to ensure ecological validity and uptake. By linking mechanisms to management and scaling solutions across domains, the F.L.A.M.E.S. framework provides a roadmap for enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainable wellbeing.

Citation

Lane, A.M.; Micklewright, D.; Meijen, C. (2025) Understanding Fatigue: A Psychological Framework for Health and Performance. Sci, 7, 162. https://doi.org/10.3390/ sci7040162

Type

Journal article

Language

en

Description

© 2025 The Authors, published by MDPI. This is an open access article available under a Creative Commons licence. The published version can be accessed at the following link on the publisher’s website: https://doi.org/10.3390/sci7040162

ISSN

2413-4155

EISSN

2413-4155

Collections

Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre