As the Covid-19 pandemic persists, it is normal and expected for people to be experiencing what is being called “Covid-19 Fatigue.” With ambiguity surrounding in person education, job security, and economic stability, it is understandable to want to return to normal and scale back on precautions you are taking, however, with cases in Minnesota still putting hospitals at high risk of being overburdened, it is incredibly important to stay vigilant by following government mandated restrictions put in place to battle these surging cases. To help combat mounting stress, we have compiled up to date and pertinent information regarding rules, restrictions, and resources relating to Covid-19, in addition to a guide on how to cope with the burdensome anxiety that has arrived with increased restrictions and the winter/holiday season for adults, caregivers, and children. 

First and foremost, it’s important to emphasize the light at the end of the tunnel. Fortunately, Governor Walz will sign into law $216 million in direct support for small businesses and workers affected by the pandemic. The bipartisan bill will provide direct, targeted aid to keep our small businesses afloat, extend unemployment benefits for workers struggling to get by, and help families put food on the table. While not the lifeline that our businesses need, the Governor believes this is an important step in the right direction as the state continues to push for federal relief. To find out more and how this aid may apply to you, reference more info here. 

Additionally, two very safe and effective vaccine’s, produced by Moderna and Pfizer, have been issued emergency use authorizations by the FDA, meaning a majority of the population can look forward to being vaccinated and returning to more familiar ways of life come summer 2021 (For more information regarding information on the vaccine, click here). Until then, as we continue to deal with pandemic burnout, many of us are struggling to abide by continued recommendations of social distancing, keeping us apart from friends and family during such a cherished time, but if communities across the community can stay committed to keeping each other safe, the sooner people will be able to return to their desired lives. Mental health professionals are urging people to focus on practices to keep you and your families safe in the meantime.

While it can feel odd to take such drastic measures to combat a risk that may not feel real to some, you are encouraged to find empathy for those who are sick or have lost a loved one, and to consider the long-term effects of the virus that are still unknown. Further, accessing regularly updated information can help ease anxieties. Staying up to date on the current situation will allow you to make educated decisions regarding your actions and will help with clarity surrounding Covid-19 relief if you are struggling financially. Being aware of and accessing available resources is a good way to curb worrying. Making a commitment to staying safe is also a great way to hold yourself accountable. Here are some guidelines to get you started: 

1. Always wear a mask (covering your nose and mouth) and maintain physical distance of 6 ft. when planning to see people who do not live in the same household as you.  
2. Refrain from traveling to large family gatherings to mitigate community spread of the virus. (Indoor gatherings are not recommended, but Minnesotans may gather inside with one other household up to 10 people. If outside, social gatherings may include up to two additional households (three total) with a maximum of 15 people) 
3. Visit the Stay Safe, Minnesota website to receive regular updates on current recommendations.  
4. Do your best to connect with friends and family virtually or by sending a letter or card. Social distancing doesn’t have to mean social isolation.  
5. Acknowledge essential and frontline workers and at-risk members of the community who rely on everyone to follow guidelines and keep them and their families safe, too. 

As hard as it is to keep up with guidelines as adults, it can be even harder and confusing for children. It is important to remember reactions may vary depending on the child. These responses can include change in energy levels, eating patterns, motivation, and coping mechanisms. Parents are caregivers are reminded to remain sensitive and responsive to their child’s needs. Spending quality time with loved one is essential to working through pandemic fatigue. As time goes on, children may become increasingly confused as to why they cannot return to school or see their friends. In dealing with this uncertainty in children, it is important to provide age-appropriate information as to why they are making these difficult sacrifices. Remind them what a good job they are doing and how proud you are of them for doing their best. When struggling to maintain a flourishing environment for children, remember these 2 R’s are key: 

1. Routine 

Children respond well to structure and routine. If you can, provide them with a designated space for school where they can focus during virtual learning. Practice getting up at the same time every day and taking breaks intermittently throughout the school day to move around. Additionally, help children regulate by offering them choices in activities they can participate in. This will help children remain grounded and energized as they strive to stay engaged at home.  

1. Reassurance  

In times of uncertainty, oftentimes children fill the unknown with works of their imagination. This can sometimes snowball into a scary situation for young minds. Do your best to provide simple examples of why your family is approaching life differently this winter and explain to them how they are helping others by staying home. Lastly, reassure them that they can talk to you when they are feeling worried, and that home is a safe space for them.  

(For more tips on learning at home, visit our YouTube page and view our “Learning Together” Video Series with Mental Health Professionals) 

At CLUES know this has been an extremely difficult time for members of our community and want to applaud the strength and responsibility everyone has shown in the face of hardship. We encourage everyone to continue taking precautions. Even though it can be difficult, it is worth it to protect the community, and CLUES is here to support you. Please reach out to the number listed below if you are in need of assistance due to COVID-19.  

Clues has launched a bilingual COVID-19 hotline (651-768-0000) aimed at connecting the Latino community to resources during the pandemic.  

The hotline helps anyone needing access to food, COVID-19 testing, healthcare and mental health resources, housing and rental assistance, COVID-91 case investigation and contact tracing, employment resources, CLUES programs and services, and other critical community resources. You can find more information at: clues.org/covid19 

References:  

https://mn.gov/governor/covid-19/news/?id=1055-458091 

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/how-to-deal-with-coronavirus-burnout-and-pandemic-fatigue 

https://mn.gov/covid19/?gclid=CjwKCAiA8ov_BRAoEiwAOZogwXd5LXwyFelWRLQiee4SFAe8HK4aosMm6afGj_HOYQb4yElvkgEgFRoCzzoQAvD_BwE