Winter Blues and Covid Fatigue…..UGH!
How to Combat Covid Fatigue
After months of restrictions put in place many people are feeling “pandemic fatigue,” and the icing on that cake is the winter blues. BLAH! The coronavirus pandemic is still going strong. It is normal to become weary of the necessary precautions to slow the spread of disease and the long cold winter nights. Here is how to combat COVID fatigue and still protect yourself and your loved ones as well as some tips for overcoming the winter blues.
Acknowledge your feelings.
It is normal to feel tired, frustrated, worried, mad, sad and all the other
emotions in between. Let yourself feel them, write them down, talk to a loved
one about them, or reach out to a mental health professional if you are
struggling.
Reframe your thinking.
Shift from ‘I have to stay home’ to ‘I’m lucky I can stay home to protect
myself and my family.’
Treat your mask as an accessory or a way to express yourself instead of as
something you have to wear.
Stay connected with others–
distantly.
A phone call or video call is a great way to stay connected. Although it does
not replace a face-to-face conversation, technology can help us feel together
when it is best to be apart.
Reduce stress by taking care of your
physical health.
Getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly can
improve your mood and outlook. Limiting your alcohol intake can also improve
your mood.
Rely on trusted news sources for
information.
Staying informed is important, but too much information can add to your COVID
fatigue. Use reliable news sources and be mindful of social media, where
disinformation can spread quickly.
Overcoming the Winter Blues
Exercise Bundle up for a walk, swim indoors, or head to the gym. Exercise can work in fighting mild-to-moderate depression.
Check your vitamin D levels Sunlight is a source of vitamin D, a nutrient linked to sharper thinking and better emotional health. Check with your doctor about whether a vitamin D supplement is right for you.
Get some light therapy Give yourself every opportunity for daylight, such as placing exercise equipment or your work area near a window. Lamps that simulate natural light can also help.
Eat a healthy diet Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains can boost your energy and are vital year round. Fruits and veggies of deep green or orange, like broccoli, kale, and carrots, have nutrients that promote better mood and total health.
Stimulate your senses Some people find that painting their walls a bright color — or even their nails — can improve their outlook. Scents can add to your feeling of well-being; try peppermint essential oil or some other energizing scent.
Nurture your spirit Slow down and curl up in a cozy chair with a good book or write in your journal. Watch a favorite ‘feel good’ movie.
Look for things that make you smile or laugh
These are the memes the staff shared one day when one of our own lost a mitten......no politics intended
