In recent weeks, many countries have been reporting an increase in “pandemic fatigue” – people are feeling demotivated about following recommended behaviours to protect themselves and others from the virus.
Finding effective ways to tackle this fatigue and reinvigorate public vigilance is a growing challenge as the crisis continues. Pandemic fatigue evolves gradually over time and is affected by the cultural, social, structural and legislative environment. High-level public health experts from over 30 countries and many partner organizations from the WHO European region connected remotely to search together the root causes of this phenomenon and share national experiences and plans.
Overcoming COVID Fatigue At An Individual Level
As hard as this emotional fatigue has been, it’s harder on people who are coping with mental illness. Seek virtual therapy to cope effectively during these turbulent times.Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to release the energy that builds up from stress and worry. Take a walk through the park or your neighbourhood. Do floor exercises to a YouTube video.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is cultivating an awareness of the present moment. It can be as simple as stopping and focusing on the task at hand, or on the natural world around you, or on your own breathing.
Express Yourself
“Processing” is a word that therapists use to describe the act of expressing your feelings and emotions. By sharing how we’re feeling — whether through talk, writing in a journal, playing a musical instrument — we release the worry and stress that we’ve been holding in before it builds up to a traumatic level.
Stay Socially Connected
Use technology to stay in touch with friends and family while keeping a safe physical distance. Attend virtual Meetup meetings. Join groups online.