It’s crazy to think how much our lives have changed since those fateful weeks in March where it felt like the world turned upside down. Back then, we were all shuttered at home, loading up on groceries, completing puzzles and adjusting to going to class in our childhood bedrooms. Looking back, there was so much we didn’t and couldn’t know.
Now, we’ve been living in a pandemic for over six months. Things that seemed like temporary restrictions have become a part of our everyday lives. We’ve been social distancing, sanitizing, and logging onto Zoom diligently, but that doesn’t mean that some days, it all just feels really overwhelming and, well, old.
Feeling this way is completely normal and it’s becoming more and more common throughout America as the weather gets colder and a widely available vaccine is still likely months, if not years, away. It’s called “pandemic fatigue.”
A quick Google search yields dozens of recent articles detailing how throughout the world, people are becoming more restless and burned out on pandemic precautions, even though the risk of getting sick is still large, if not greater than it was in the spring. People young and old are longing for their old way of life and routines and as the months wear on, are becoming more likely to risk their health to have it back. Thus, life can feel like a constant struggle between “normal” and “the new normal.”
As college students, we experience this limbo every day. We are lucky to have the option to be present on our campus and be together. And yet, it doesn’t feel quite the same. We are masked, spaced out and unable to gather in large groups. And while these measures are necessary and good, it doesn’t feel like what we are used to. For most of us, this means we feel more anxiety, insecurity and uncertainty about the future than ever before.
So what does “pandemic fatigue” look like? It’s different for everyone. For some people, it means being less likely to want to follow COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines. For others, it can be symptoms such as crying more often, feelings of isolation or being unable to concentrate and focus as easily. There’s no right or wrong way to cope but it is important to realize when it’s happening.
Sadly, there is no exact “cure” for pandemic fatigue. But that doesn’t mean that anyone has to suffer alone. If you’re feeling this way, chances are that so many people you know are feeling the same. So, what can be done?
For starters, take care of yourself! Work on a routine that makes you happy and includes more than just school. Getting more exercise, having restful sleep and finding safe ways to socialize are all great places to start. With colder weather settling in, you may have to get creative with how these happen. It’s also important to recognize when you need to take a break from current events. While it’s always good to be informed, sometimes the news (especially COVID-19 related coverage) can be really depressing. Don’t be afraid to give yourself a break when you need it.
Another good way to deal with pandemic fatigue is to talk about it. No matter what, you’re not alone and sometimes talking about something feels better than holding it in. Thankfully, FaceTime and Zoom make it super easy for us to connect and talk with family and friends both near and far. There are plenty of options such as the university counseling center for those who’d rather talk with a professional. Most licensed therapists are willing to meet virtually as well.
Finally, do your best to be strong. It can be so difficult especially when social media makes it look like everyone else is living their best life or doing things that you can’t do. But the reality is that everyone is struggling and trying to come to terms with what life looks like now. It’s ok to struggle and it’s ok to feel disappointed. However, this pandemic will end someday and in the meantime, you’ll get through this.