COVID burnout or pandemic fatigue is a feeling of exhaustion and demotivation due to changes resulting from the COVID pandemic. Pandemic fatigue is a natural result of a pandemic. The precautions we’ve implemented month after month feel constricting. Virtually schooling our kids takes energy. Avoiding large gatherings with family and friends is a difficult decision to make.
All of these precautions have affected our lives in one way or another. As the pandemic continues, the recommendations and conditions are changing. With so many variants, opinions surrounding vaccines, and fluctuating mandates, it’s easy to see why we’re all so tired. There are ways to maintain your perspective during this ongoing pandemic.
What are the Symptoms of COVID Fatigue?
Burnout and its symptoms differ depending on the person. Some general symptoms include:
- Exhaustion even with adequate sleep
- Snappiness and irritability
- Feelings of isolation
Some of these symptoms are passing. Other, longer-lasting symptoms of pandemic fatigue can interfere with your day-to-day life.
Cynicism and emotional exhaustion
These are common symptoms of general burnout. Emotional exhaustion is self-explanatory. Cynicism is a kind of skepticism motivated by a belief that everyone around you is selfish. This is especially prevalent in people who have worked in demanding environments during this crisis. This would include front-line workers like teachers, nurses, doctors, and emergency responders.
Less effectiveness at work
Our personal resources, like our energy and time, are what drive our burnout meter. Without the energy and time we need to tend to ourselves, we experience exhaustion and self-doubt. Focusing on work tasks may become more difficult. If you’ve been feeling like a failure at work, it might be because of pandemic fatigue.
Severe anxiety
Anxiety about the future, maybe yours, your communities, and the world at large, is another symptom of COVID fatigue. We’re pretty sure this anxiety stems from our inability to predict an end to the pandemic. Unpredictability and loss of control are primary drivers of anxiety. If you’re feeling anxious about the greater world and community, especially, you might be experiencing fatigue.
Unwillingness with Guidelines
The pandemic dragging into an unfocused future. Many of us are tired of wearing masks, avoiding friends and family, and schools and work closing. This is natural. These guidelines feel restrictive at this point. Experiencing fatigue in this way can also reignite anxiety. We want to do what is good for our community, but our life feels invaded. It’s okay to acknowledge these feelings so you can find the energy to keep following the guidelines.
How To Cope with Burnout
If you feel you’re struggling with pandemic fatigue, try these coping mechanisms:
Connect with people
It sounds counterintuitive because we’re trying to social distance. Netflix parties, small gatherings with masks are good ways to stay connected. We have to battle the feelings of isolation somehow. Humans are social creatures. Isolation contributes to symptoms of depression. Keeping in touch while still distancing to help ease burnout.
Keep your routine
Sticking to a daily routine helps maintain your mental health. Focus on your necessary self-care. Eat well, do gentle daily exercise, and get adequate sleep. These are an important part of your mental health. They help you feel worthy of love and create a sense of security in a constantly shifting world.
Talk to a therapist
With telehealth, it’s possible to talk to a therapist from the safety of your home. Untreated, COVID burnout can lead to depression and other mental health issues. The help of a professional therapist can make a significant difference in how you cope with burnout. Finally, if you’re experiencing an overwhelming sense of burnout, please read more about depression therapy and reach out for help.
