Is living under the threat of COVID-19 beginning to wear you down? If so, you are not alone. 😷😱
People around the globe have had to adapt to living under the threat of this pandemic. Many “have made huge sacrifices to contain COVID-19,” says Dr. Hans Kluge, World Health Organization Regional Director for Europe. “In such circumstances it is easy and natural to feel apathetic and demotivated, to experience fatigue.” (Source-WHO)
If you are experiencing pandemic fatigue, there are strategies that you can implement during this stressful time that will help.
What Does Pandemic Fatigue Mean?
Pandemic fatigue is a term used to describe the way people feel as a result of the prolonged uncertainty and disruption caused by a pandemic. Common signs of pandemic fatigue include:
- Lack of motivation
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Stress over tasks that would normally be handled well
- Feelings of hopelessness
Is Pandemic Fatigue Serious?
Pandemic fatigue poses a serious threat to our safety and that of others. If we do not address it, we may gradually lose our motivation to follow COVID-safe practices and become complacent about the virus, even while it continues to spread, which could put us and others at risk.
What Can You Do to Beat Pandemic Fatigue?
Stay at a distance physically—but not socially.
Stay connected with family and friends through video conferencing, phone calls, e-mail and text messages. Regularly check in to see how they are and be honest about how you feel. Plan game nights or happy hours.
Find ways to help others.
Even though we are physically distant from family and friends, we can find ways to let them know we are thinking of them. Spending time doing things for others helps us forget our own worries and anxieties.
Make the best of your current circumstances and make the best use of your time.
Rather than focus on what you can no longer do, look for ways that you can take advantage of your situation. Now is a good time to start new projects and pursue hobbies. It is also a unique opportunity to spend more time with our families.
Stay positive.
Having a positive attitude will greatly improve our mental and physical health. In reality, attitude often trumps circumstances and genes when it comes to happiness. Unlike your circumstances or your genes
Make a schedule.
Make a schedule that reflects your current circumstances. Set aside time for work, school and other necessary responsibilities. Include time for family and healthy activities such as exercising and being outdoors. Routines help us to feel settled and happier.
Plan outdoor activities.
Depending on where you live, changing seasons may reduce your opportunities to get fresh air and sunlight, which are good for your physical and mental health. Plan outdoor activities you will be able to do despite the colder weather. Plan where you will go, and choose times when crowds will not be there. Even a brief amount of time outside can help.
Continue to Be Cautious and Stay Positive
We risk infection if we let down our guard. Regularly check reliable local guidelines and consider whether you are still being cautious. Focus on how your actions will affect you, your family, and others. Let’s all do our part to stop the spread.
Focusing on positive things can help us to be happy even during difficult times. Remember gratitude is the best attitude. And… get outside. ⛷️🏄🏊🏃