Wrestling Pandemic Fatigue
It is twelve (12) months since the world realize the deadly effect of virus disease, the rapid spread of these viruses has prompted many Countries into a total lockdown as many advanced countries of the first are now experiencing the second and some even the third waves of the spread. This novel virus is the coronavirus, popularly known as the Covid-19 virus. Has living under the threat of COVID-19 begun to wear you down? If so, you are not alone. For months, people around the globe have had to adapt to living under the threat of this pandemic, A doctor who is a World Health Organization Regional Director for Europe says
“Many have made huge sacrifices to contain COVID-19, In such circumstances, it is easy and natural to feel apathetic and demotivated, to experience fatigue.”
Dr. Hans Kluge
What Is Pandemic Fatigue?
Pandemic fatigue is not a medical condition but is a term used to describe the natural response people feel to the prolonged uncertainty and disruption caused by a pandemic. While each person reacts differently, some common signs of pandemic fatigue include:
- Lack of motivation
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Irritability
- Stress over tasks that would normally be handled well
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of hopelessness
Why Is Pandemic fatigue serious?
Pandemic fatigue poses a serious threat to our safety and that of others. If we leave it unattended, we may gradually begin to lose our motivation to follow COVID-safe practices. Over time, we may become complacent about the virus, even while it continues to spread and kill. Tired of living under restrictions, we may seek greater freedom, which could put not only ourselves but our dear family and others at risk.
Tips That Can Help You Beat Pandemic Fatigue
- Stay at a distance physically—but not socially: Stay connected with your friends through video chats, phone calls, or e-mail and text messages. Reach out to friends when you are having a bad day, and regularly check-in to see how they are doing. Exchange tips on what is helping you to cope during the pandemic. Find ways to do something kind for a friend, and you will make a bad day feel better.
- Make the best of your current circumstances: Rather than focus on what you can no longer do, look for ways that you can take advantage of your situation. For example, are there projects that you now have time for or hobbies that you can now pursue? Can you spend more time with your family? Take advantage of the open opportunity to learn new things online and better your life.
- Stick to a routine: Make a schedule that reflects your current situation. Set aside specific times to do schoolwork, secular work, and household chores as well as times to take care of your personal health. Include other healthy activities, such as spending time with family, being outdoors, and exercising. Periodically review your schedule, and revise it as necessary.
- Adapt to changing season: Adapting to changing seasons is key to controlling the spread of the Covid-19 virus. If winter is approaching, try to adjust your living room or work area to maximize sunlight. Plan outdoor activities you will be able to do despite the colder weather. If possible, obtain winter clothes that will let you spend more time outside. If summer is approaching, people will spend more time outdoors, so be safe. Think in advance where you will go, and choose times when crowds will not be there.
- Continue to practice COVID-safe behavior: Regularly check reliable local guidelines such as the guidelines provided by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organization (WHO), or other bodies as it may be related to your local area and consider whether you are still being cautious. Focus on how your actions will affect you, your family, and others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as the World Health Organization (WHO) and other relevant bodies work towards getting a vaccine for the virus, be creative as well as safety cautious, as the whole globe battles these ugly “monster” covid-19. During this period, keep your wards safe from the virus, be sure to register your wards into our first-ever online Mathematics forum “newtrackmathematics.com.ng”, a media created to replace home lessons, since we have come to realize that mathematics is the main reason most parents opt for home lesson teachers.
Stay Safe and Healthy, cheers!