COVID-19 pandemic has been constantly taking lives, after it dramatically changed the world ever since the beginning of 2020. With over 36,044,751 coronavirus cases, 1,054,604 deaths and 27,149,068 people recovered around the world as we write this, the fatal infection is taking a huge emotional toll. Also known as the "pandemic fatigue", Europe is said to have been dealing with the rising levels of burnout as per the World Health Organization. However, it seems like the feel may not be necessarily limited to the people in Europe only. With surging cases all around the world, people are giving up on trying to protect themselves and others around them amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Statistics reveal that in some cases over 60% of people are dealing with the "pandemic fatigue". Concerns have spiked with people feeling less motivated dealing with COVID-19 and following protective measures after living with disruption and uncertainty for months, says the WHO. Coronavirus 'Positive': From China's Road to Recovery to Controlled Air Pollution, 8 Rays of Hope Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic. 

What is Pandemic Fatigue?

WHO recently revealed that in the European Region, the Member States are reporting signs of "pandemic fatigue" in the populations. The ultimate organisation of health defined "pandemic fatigue" as "demotivation to follow recommended protective behaviours, emerging gradually over time and affected by a number of emotions, experiences and perceptions.". The ongoing pandemic, has been impacting both physically and psychologically to people all around the world who are undergoing emotional distress. The emotional and psychological impacts of coronavirus fatal infection have led people to give up on the protective measures making them less likely to follow public health practices. Thank You Messages & Positive Quotes For Coronavirus Helpers and Healthcare Workers! HD Images & Inspirational Words to Express Gratitude to Heroes Fighting COVID-19. 

Most of us can sense burnout and the feeling of exhaustion that is leading us to the reluctancy in following measures like wearing masks, constant sanitisation and following the social distancing protocols. However, when we look around us, we can see the pandemic fatigue impacting different people, differently. While some people may be feeling restless or irritable recently, others may be lacking motivation in a more quiet way that may show up in difficulty in concentration or socialisation.

What To Do?

Well, the mechanism to deal with "pandemic fatigue" varies from person to person. However, it is important to remember that regardless of our feelings towards the pandemic, the deadly infection is very much present, taking lives almost every day. You must have come across people using negative motivation to make you follow the protective measures. For example, asking you to follow them because the infection will get you otherwise. While that stands true, you must change that to positivity by telling yourself that what you are doing serves a bigger cause and you are also protecting others by doing so. Here are a few things that may help:

  • Look for positive motivation. For example, you are serving the world by following protective measures.

  • Remember, you are doing it for people who are going through worse.

  • This too shall pass: While it may be taking longer, it will pass.

  • It is time to change the lifestyle altogether, regardless of the pandemic. Healthy habits are always good.

  • Change is good. Learning a lesson is of the utmost importance, no matter how hard the way maybe.

You may even notice yourself or your loved ones withdrawing from socialising with others even virtually. While some may have a mental breakdown episode, some may simply find themselves completely withdrawn. Physical symptoms such as changes in eating and sleep patterns may also be witnessed. Pandemic fatigue is seen more commonly amongst young adults who indulge in socialising to build friendship and romantic relationships. However, it is extremely important that we rigorously follow the protective measures laid down by the WHO until a vaccine or effective treatments are available. It is advised that we strictly abide by the protective behaviours such as washing hands, wearing face coverings and social distancing. It is critical that we stand together to contain the virus and not give up anytime soon.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 07, 2020 10:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).