Coping with Fatigue

In talking to friends, one thing we all have is a tremendous sense of fatigue. We're tired of COVID-19, of the election that seems like it won't end, and combine that with the loss of daylight with sunset before 4:30, no wonder we are feeling exhausted.

So how do you fight the exhaustion and fatigue? Let me offer some suggestions and remind myself to follow my own advice

Turn off the TV and radio news. Don't keep hitting refresh on your favorite news site. Take a break from the 24 hour news cycle. Chances are you'll get an alert on your phone if there's something earth shattering or important that you just have to know about!

Go take a walk. The weather between now and Veteran's Day is going to be fantastic. Temperatures Downeast will be in the mid to upper 50's during the day and in the low 40's at night. Who knows how long we will be able to enjoy this?

Cuddle your pet. Dogs and cats can are very intuitive. My Danes have been by my side almost non-stop the last few days. Reaching out to pet them and play with them is very relaxing.

Turn on some Christmas music. Put up your Christmas decorations. If you have an artificial tree put it up! The one thing that I always say to my wife is I wish there was more time to enjoy the Holiday season. Well with the pandemic, you control a lot of your time. The one thing that I've learned about 2020 is that the so called "rules" just don't count anymore. Do what makes you happy as long as it doesn't negatively affect others!

Do something nice for others. There are plenty of opportunities to help out others during the upcoming Holiday season, while staying safe. And if you need help during the Holiday season there are opportunities for getting help such as signing up for Thanksgiving and Christmas food boxes or toys for your children.

Make sure you take your medicine. If you need to take daily medicine, take it as prescribed by your doctor. Try to take it at the same time every day.

If you feel overwhelmed talk to someone. There's absolutely NO SHAME in reaching out to others. Many businesses have Employee Assistance Programs that can put you in touch with someone to talk to. All of that is confidential. Call 2-1-1 if you need to talk to someone. If you are feeling like you might harm yourself, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255. It is available 24/7 to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

If you can take a nap during the day, and it doesn't impact your work, DO IT! There's nothing like waking up from a power nap and feeling refreshed.

Limit the consumption of caffeine and alcohol.

Remember to stay safe, wear your mask in public and wash your hands (Although that may not help you fight fatigue, it will keep you healthy!)