What is Pandemic fatigue?

Pandemic fatigue is the act of being worn out by the recommendations and precautions related to COVID-19. This is often due to limited activities and social engagements, resulting in depression and other issues.

UC Health gives 5 steps to reducing Pandemic fatigue:

1. Reflect and Accept

Take time to check in with yourself and reflect on how you are doing. If you feel irritated, impatient, angry, or are suffering from fatigue, anxiety, or depression, accept that all of these responses are normal and understandable during such a difficult time.

2. Breathe and Meditate

Breathing exercises are the simplest way to reduce stress and anxiety. Slow your breathing to tell your body that there’s no immediate threat. We’re built to kick into gear quickly if we need our “fight or flight” response. But stress also can trigger the same systems. And our bodies don’t do well if we’re constantly on high alert.

3.Monitor your social media

If you’re hooked on checking your social feeds on your phone, remove the apps. Try scheduling two, 5-minute “check-in” sessions each day. Then, other than that, stay off social media. If you’re purposely watching cable news shows that are stressing you.

4.Restore and replenish your energy

During difficult times, we need to deliberately carve out breaks to restore and replenish our reserves. Set reminders to take breaks during the day.

5. Be Active

Another way to replenish energy is through what’s known as “active self-care.” Again, finding balance and being deliberate about your choices is vital. If you’re constantly going on runs, but aren’t taking time to check in on your mental health or to rest and recharge, then you might not feel better, even after a long run.

Additional resources:

Headspace: Free Meditation App
Breathe2Relax App
MindShift App
COVID-19 Relief Options

If you are having a mental health crisis, you can:

Text CONNECT to 741741 to chat with a Crisis Counselor
Call 1-800-715-4225 if you need crisis assistance or access to mental health resources in GA (Georgia Crisis & Access Line)
Text 'GA' to 741-741 to chat with a trained counselor
Call 1-800-273-TALK or 1-800-SUICIDE if you need to speak with someone

For more mental health resources, you can visit NAMI Georgia.

Sources:

UC Health: Pandemic fatigue