So many of us have been experiencing feelings of fear, anger or anxiety when doing everyday things during the pandemic. Â
Parents, co-workers, partners and friends are likely experiencing these feelings as well, and we can attribute them to COVID-19 burnout, a normal reaction to the extra work, emotion and stress related to the pandemic.  Â
Burnout is a physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress.Â
In the southeast, many people are feeling the lack of control over daily life since day-to-day decisions about our activities are being made for us, such as who we can see or where we can go. Â
What can you do? Concentrating on the things that we can control helps to limit the sense of being overwhelmed. As individuals, we can only control our own thoughts, actions and behaviours, which in turn helps us to stay present. Â
Focus on engaging the senses through mindfulness to help remain in the present. For example, during your morning coffee you can be more present by asking yourself what colour is it, how does it taste, what temperature is it, what does the mug look like and what sounds do you notice around you? Â
Another strategy is the 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Method to quiet the mind. Focus on five things that can be seen, four things that can be touched, three things that can be heard, two things that can be smelled and one thing that can be tasted. Focus on as many details in each stage as possible to increase the benefits.  Â
To cope with burnout, try building connections and sharing experiences with those close to you. Reaching out to a professional counsellor, support line or even a family member or friends can decrease loneliness and isolation whether in-person, over the phone or virtually. Â
Lastly, engage in self-compassion. Remind yourself that it is normal to operate differently than usual. This may include taking a break to be alone, practising positive affirmations or nurturing friendships. These things may be challenging to begin with when experiencing burnout but starting small and building up can help.  Â
You are not alone. If you need someone to talk to, contact Envision Counselling and Support Centre to find out more about our rapid access programs like Walk-In Counselling and Bridging the Distance. These programs accommodate both in-person and telephone needs. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 9-1-1.Â
