How to Combat COVID Fatigue and Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

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After months of restrictions put in place to protect New York State residents from COVID-19, many people are feeling “pandemic fatigue,” especially facing the holidays ahead. The coronavirus pandemic is still going strong, and in many places resurging. It is normal to become weary of the necessary precautions to slow the spread of disease. Here is how to combat COVID fatigue and still protect yourself and your loved ones:

  • 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. The COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline is available for NYS residents and can be reached at 1-844-863-9314.
  • 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.

Putnam residents have sacrificed too much and have come too far to give up now. By continuing to take extra precautions to slow the spread of the coronavirus, the curve can be flattened again.