Home Health Senior Living: Managing your mental health while dealing with “COVID fatigue”

Senior Living: Managing your mental health while dealing with “COVID fatigue”

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Senior Living: Managing your mental health while dealing with “COVID fatigue”

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By Lauren Ford, Psy.D.

Contributing writer

You’ve heard time and again that older adults are at a higher risk for severe illness related to COVID-19. So, you continue to stay home and physically distance from loved ones to protect yourself. But it’s been months, and it seems like there’s no end in sight. 

Lauren Ford, Psy.D

As a result, you may be experiencing higher levels of stress, feelings of loneliness, and maybe even hopelessness. You’re not alone. Many Americans are increasingly experiencing “COVID fatigue.” Even former first lady Michelle Obama recently addressed the mental toll the pandemic has had on her. 

Balancing your physical and mental health can be challenging, but there are many ways to cope with “COVID fatigue” and the feelings that can result from it. 

Staying connected with loved ones

It’s important to know the difference between physical distancing and social isolation. Even though you’re taking precautions to protect your physical health, you still need social connection. Technology is a great tool to help you stay in touch with family and friends. Luckily, there are many resources available for this purpose:

  • Messaging websites and applications, such as iMessage, Google Hangouts and WhatsApp;
  • Social media websites, such as Facebook and Instagram;
  • Hyperlocal websites and applications, which allow you to connect with your neighbors and exchange information, such as Ring and Nextdoor;
  • Email and email greeting websites, which allow you to send free, personalized emails to loved ones;
  • Group video chat websites and applications, such as Zoom, Skype and FaceTime; and
  • Online game applications, which allow you to play games with loved ones.

If you don’t have access to a smartphone or computer, you also can consider sending a hand-written letter, personalized card or even have flowers delivered to your loved ones. Bringing joy to others is a great way to help yourself feel better by expressing your emotions and creativity.

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