According to psychologist Randy Dellosa, pandemic fatigue is the physical, mental and emotional exhaustion due to enduring the situation under a pandemic.
He said this results in some changes in a person’s life as follows:
lifestyle changes
heavier work challenges
financial crisis
relationship conflict
health threats
quarantine limits
“It is getting ‘sick and tired’ of trying to consider as a “new normal” what in reality is an obvious “abnormal,” Dellosa told ABS-CBN News on Friday.
“Pandemic fatigue is also about desperately wanting to regain the previous “normal” but feeling helpless for it to happen,” he added.
According to the expert, the manifestation of pandemic fatigue can be seen in some feelings such as the following:
boredom
restless
annoyance
frustration
angry
pessimism
depression
anxiety
He said that it can also affect daily activities and can be felt in some of the following:
loss of appetite for school or work activities
dissatisfaction
disturbed sleep
changes in appetite and weight
poor focus
pessimism
self -harming habits
“People who are tired of the pandemic may simply give up on following the protocol for COVID-19 prevention such as social distancing, wearing masks and face shields, and hand-washing,” he said.
Tips on how to fight pandemic fatigue
“The longer the pandemic fatigue is experienced, the higher the possibility for psychiatric disorders to develop. The most common psychiatric disorders that can develop from pandemic fatigue are major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders,” the doctors said.
“People who were experiencing mental health issues prior to the pandemic are prone to relapse and worsening of their mental health condition. People with relationship problems prior to the pandemic are likewise expected for their relationships to sour even more,” he added.
While the lockdown continues in the hope of eradicating the virus in our country, Dellosa has some tips for Filipinos.
Being pro-active in creating solutions rather than simply worrying about problems
Adjusting a budget and finding alternative sources of income
As much as possible be physically and mentally active
Limit screen time after work or study to 2 to 3 hours
Find meaningful activity to keep yourself busy
Creates a social and emotional support system despite quarantine restrictions
Stay informed with news
Find creative ways to help others
Avoid conflict between family members or relationships
Take care of the spiritual life
Do not be afraid to seek professional help for mental health issues