Most of us have been more or less quarantined since some time in March. This time apart from others both at home and in our working lives, is likely to have an effect. This effect is known as “Quarantine Fatigue.” We are literally exhausted from being quarantined for a long time. The symptoms of Quarantine Fatigue differ from person to person, but these are the most common symptoms and some quick ideas that you can use to combat them:
*Feeling irritated or anxious.
For those feeling like this,, I often suggest a sort of mindfulness exercise.
*Social withdrawal
Lots of people are feeling less able to socialize during their quarantine, but really this is a good time to engage in a different way. If you have zoom or any other online platform, set up visits with friends and family.
*Changes in eating habits
Food is a big part of health. This is a time to create new and healthier eating habits.
* Changes in sleeping habits
So many people have fallen into less-helpful sleeping habits. Not having to get up so early for work, they stay up late and end up getting less sleep because they stayed up too late. The best advice is to set a bedtime and stick to it.
*Loss of Motivation
Sometimes people feel less motivated when they have less to do. It is good to set a task for each day, at least one thing (even if it’s just a load of laundry) that you will finish by the end of the day.
*Lower productivity, even while working from home.
Some employers set a structure, or it is set by the need to produce work before a set
meeting time. If that does not happen, workers need to set a schedule for themselves and stick to it.
*Racing thoughts
While this is a less common result of Quarantine Fatigue, it can be quite disturbing. There are simple and effective ways to reduce this, including deep breathing and relaxation.
*Conflicts or withdrawal from others
Sometimes living in a confined space with another person or group of people can be challenging, even if they are our dearest ones. People with Quarantine Fatigue sometimes get into conflicts at this time or withdraw. Making sure that every person in the household has the opportunity to be alone or to engage productively will help a great deal.
While it is to be expected that a lengthy quarantine would bring changes, these symptoms can be truly challenging as they make life in quarantine more difficult. For those living with a severe case of Quarantine Fatigue (or for those in their household) it is often really hard to get through the day.
As you can see, hypnotherapy would be a great help with all of the symptoms of Quarantine Fatigue. Many hypnotherapists are not comfortable working online, but there are those of us who have become quite adept at the various platforms available, including some specifically designed for therapy or healthcare. I have been working exclusively online since March and I am happy to say that my clients find online and in-person work equally successful. If you are experiencing the symptoms of Quarantine Fatigue, please make an appointment as soon as possible. You can send me a message through my website, www.doctornancie.com or call 703-385-9311. If you choose to call, please note that I am on the East Coast of the United States and time your call accordingly. I look forward to meeting you soon!
