A few weeks ago, I hit what many are referring to as the “pandemic wall.” It’s not the first time this has happened since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global crisis and life as we knew it changed. I doubt it will be the last time I face this metaphorical wall before we find some semblance of normalcy. And I know I’m not alone in this; reports indicate that many are experiencing similar feelings of burnout, especially during the dreary winter months and amidst heightened stress levels.
While mental health professionals assure us that encountering these emotional walls is common, it provides little comfort. My encounter with this wall wasn’t a gentle bump; it felt like a full-on collision. This particular moment came as I marked the anniversary of my partner’s passing, while my children navigated their own grief. It was compounded by a winter storm that left us buried under two feet of snow, and a forecast that seemed to promise more of the same indefinitely. In that moment, I realized that pandemic walls and solo parenting are a particularly challenging combination.
What is a “Pandemic Wall”?
So, what exactly is a “pandemic wall”? The term was brought into popular discourse by a public radio host to describe the sudden and overwhelming emotional fatigue many are feeling in these unsettling times. It’s when every little task feels insurmountable, and the usual joys of life seem to drain your energy instead of replenish it. It’s a sensation that can’t simply be cured by taking a nap.
Strategies to Overcome the Wall
Experts have offered various strategies to overcome this wall. For instance, psychiatrist Dr. Jameson Lee suggests that movement, proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, and the establishment of new routines can help. He also emphasizes the importance of managing personal expectations and maintaining connections with loved ones. However, for solo parents, this advice can feel impractical. Even before the pandemic, my expectations of what I could accomplish in a day were already minimal. I quickly learned the harsh reality of managing a household meant for two on my own. Some responsibilities inevitably slip through the cracks, especially during a pandemic.
The harsh truth I faced when I hit this wall yet again was this: it stands tall, and solo parents are left with no option but to keep pushing against it. For nearly a year, we’ve been adjusting our expectations downwards, just to survive the next hurdle. At this point, I’ve reached the bare minimum—just enough to provide a safe environment for my kids, maintain our home, and keep us afloat. However, with no one else to share the load, the tasks pile up, leaving me feeling overwhelmed and stuck.
A Candid Reflection
This isn’t merely a complaint; it’s a candid reflection on the struggles many solo parents face. While I am incredibly grateful for my family’s stability and the support of friends, I acknowledge that my experience is not universal.
The objective isn’t to create a hierarchy of hardship but to highlight that solo parents face unique challenges when dealing with pandemic-induced stress. There’s no easy resolution, no moment of peace to enjoy after a year of navigating solo parenting amidst a global crisis. Perhaps the best we can do is recognize the difficulty of our circumstances while reminding ourselves that this situation is temporary.
The pandemic will eventually come to an end. Spring will arrive, and while we may feel battered, we will find a way to persevere.
Further Reading
For those interested in more insights on this topic, check out this post on home insemination or visit Intracervical Insemination for expert information. Additionally, March of Dimes offers valuable resources on pregnancy and home insemination.