Feeling drained from online classes, missing your friends and family, walking to the grocery store for the third time in a week just to leave the house?… If you relate to any of that, I’m right there with you. We’re coming up on the one-year anniversary of covid flipping our lives upside down, so it’s completely understandable why we all have pandemic burnout. Here are a few simple changes I’ve made recently to help myself feel better.
- Make a routine.
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For me, this means making my bed and eating breakfast each morning. It’s so simple, but I always feel better when I do these things. Getting a planner or even making a quick to-do list can help you organize your day and feel less overwhelmed.
- Find unique ways to connect with people.
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I love the idea that we should practice physical distancing, not social! In the age of technology, our friends and family are often just a few clicks away. Also, in Boulder, up to ten people can get together from two households. Head to a park or outdoor area on campus to catch up with your friends while still observing covid protocols.
- Get outside.
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This one is definitely easier when the weather is warm, but even ten minutes outdoors can make a world of difference. Staying inside all day isn’t great for our Vitamin D intake! I try to find times during the week where I can walk to Starbucks or the grocery store, and I always feel better on those days than the days I’m cooped up.
- Do things away from your screen.
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Hours of screen time are kind of hard to avoid nowadays, which is why it’s even more important to find offline hobbies. Personally, I like reading, baking, and diamond art paintings (which are so addicting!). It gives my eyes a break and also lets me do something I enjoy.
- Talk to your professors.
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If you’re struggling with keeping up with assignments, reach out and let a professor or advisor know. We’re all struggling together, and if you advocate for yourself, most of them will be happy to work out solutions with you.
With the vaccine rollout increasing, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Someday soon, we’ll be able to hug our friends and do things safely again. Until then, hang in there, and remember to just take it one day at a time.