You’re Not Alone: Pandemic Fatigue is Real
Pandemic fatigue is creeping into more and more of our lives.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage across the world, it’s getting harder and harder to continue on in our normal lives. With colder weather coming, the summer respite and spending good amounts of time outdoors is coming to an end. This is going to be a very challenging season for mental health.
Too many people are still ignoring the fundamental science-based protections – such as simply wearing a mask when away from home – that will help reduce overall rates of the spread of coronavirus in the U.S. today. We likely won’t be “out of the woods” until a vaccine has gone through the necessary clinical trials and been proven safe and effective. Few Americans will feel comfortable taking a rushed vaccine.
As a clinician, you’re supposed to be a rock for your clients. But as a human being, you’re dealing with the same frustrations and feelings of helplessness against the pandemic that so many are. Give yourself time with those feelings and acknowledge that this has been a difficult year for most people.
Remember to engage in self-care and to make time for yourself and your needs every week. This is more important than ever. If you’re not doing this, you’re in danger of using up all your emotional reserves when we’re only halfway through this.
I also found this article from Johns Hopkins Medicine may be of help. It spells out what we can do to better help ourselves and our loved ones deal with pandemic fatigue:
Remember, we’re all in this together. Stay healthy!