Lately, I’ve found myself spending an unusual amount of time gazing out the window. Under normal conditions, I’m typically a driven individual, eager to tackle my extensive to-do lists. I thrive on activity and prefer to keep my schedule packed rather than empty, but recent times have shifted that dynamic.
These days, even the simplest tasks seem daunting. While there’s less urgency in my daily routine, I feel busier than ever—not because I have more responsibilities, but because everything takes significantly longer than it used to. The so-called “free time” that came with social distancing and canceled plans has filled up with anxiety, worry, and an endless cycle of questioning what’s next. And yes, a good amount of staring out the window.
Adapting to this “new normal” has left me feeling dazed and confused. I often forget what day it is or what I ought to be doing with my time. Sure, I could assist my partner in organizing the garage or try an online yoga class, but my focus is nowhere to be found. I can’t decide where to put sports gear, and yoga just isn’t my thing.
While some are busy hosting Zoom gatherings or planning fun activities, I’m struggling to accomplish what I once managed before lunch. I feel sluggish, out of sync, and generally unsettled. It’s easy to feel isolated in this experience, especially when social media is buzzing with people sharing their ambitious quarantine projects, from fitness goals to baking endeavors.
However, it turns out this overwhelming feeling of fatigue, even when it seems like I’m doing nothing, is a recognized phenomenon known as allostatic load. In essence, allostatic load refers to the physical toll our bodies endure from ongoing stress. Although binge-watching shows may not seem stressful, the reality of a pandemic and the resulting lifestyle changes undeniably create significant stress.
Nancy Foster, a psychologist at the University of Toronto, explains that the pandemic has heightened our baseline stress levels. “We’re undergoing multiple physiological changes every time we feel anxious or concerned,” she noted. “Over time, these repeated stress responses can accumulate, leading to allostatic load.” This accumulation manifests as the fatigue and mental fog we’re experiencing, reflecting how stress impacts our bodies.
The social isolation we face, combined with the genuine threats to our health and jobs, adds to the physical strain. George Ramirez, a researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles, emphasized that being alone increases our vulnerability to dangers, causing our brains to remain in a heightened state of alertness.
The anxiety stemming from everyday activities—like grocery shopping—only exacerbates this toll. While it may not be the same as the strain from intense physical exercise, it is still a significant burden on our bodies.
Combating Brain Fog and Fatigue
So, how can we combat this brain fog and fatigue? Psychologists suggest recognizing our feelings without judgment. It’s essential to name what we’re experiencing. Personally, I’m feeling lost, frustrated, unmotivated, and quite exhausted.
Experts also advise engaging in physical activity, ensuring adequate sleep, and maintaining a healthy diet. But, let’s be real—those can be easier said than done when you find yourself wide awake in the early hours or craving snacks more than a balanced meal.
Andrea Gawrylewski from Scientific American provided some relatable advice: “This is a time for non-judgment, for allowing extra emotions, more naps, and indulging in treats. Do what helps you feel less anxious and isolated, and repeat it.”
With that in mind, I will now take a moment to indulge in some cookie dough, shed a few tears, and return to my window-watching.
If you’re looking for more insights on navigating these challenging times, check out this related article for further reading. For those interested in cheesy dishes during this era, Intracervical Insemination offers some great resources. And if you want to explore pregnancy options, WebMD provides excellent guidance.
Summary
The term allostatic load explains the mental and physical fatigue many are experiencing during recent times. As stress accumulates from social isolation, health concerns, and the constant need for heightened awareness, it can lead to feelings of confusion and exhaustion. Acknowledging these feelings and allowing ourselves to engage in self-care can help mitigate the effects of this stress.