väsy

Väsy is a Finnish term referring to tiredness or fatigue. It is widely used in informal speech. The standard Finnish terms for the same idea are väsynyt (tired) and väsymys (fatigue). The related verb väsyä means to become tired, with forms such as väsyy and väsyneenä. Väsy is commonly used to express a casual sense of sleepiness and does not by itself imply a medical condition.

Causes of väsy include insufficient sleep, long periods of physical or mental effort, and stress. Medical conditions (for example sleep disorders, anemia, thyroid issues) and medications can also cause fatigue. Substances such as caffeine or alcohol can affect sleep quality and daytime alertness.

Symptoms associated with väsy include yawning, drowsiness, reduced concentration, slower reaction times, and irritability. Prolonged tiredness can impair performance and mood and may signal an underlying health problem.

Management generally focuses on rest and sleep hygiene: regular sleep schedules, adequate sleep duration, short strategic naps if needed, balanced nutrition, hydration, and physical activity. Limiting late caffeine and alcohol can help. If fatigue lasts for several weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, medical advice should be sought.

See also: väsymys; väsy is part of the vocabulary describing fatigue in Finnish language and culture.