While acute stress can be intense and all-consuming, it’s also limited in duration.
On the other hand, longer-lasting sources of stress can often feel inescapable and unchangeable.
Such stressful situations can include natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or financial meltdowns.
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Over time, thischronic stresscan take a toll on both emotional and physical well-being.
Crisis fatigue can manifest as physical exhaustion, mental detachment, and apathy.
The COVID-19 pandemic is an example of ongoing stress that may cause people to experience crisis fatigue.
Signs and Symptoms
Not everyone experiences crisis fatigue in the same way or to the same degree.
What Causes it?
Several factors can contribute to crisis fatigue.
These include:
Exposure to stressful information can also contribute to feelings of crisis fatigue.
The stress response prepares people to respond, cope, and adapt.
Limit Exposure
Limit your exposure to news that is specifically about the crisis.
Set limits on how much time you spend watching the news or watching it on social media.
Consider subscribing to a daily summary through a newspaper website.
This way, you’re able to stay informed of current events without getting overwhelmed.
Care for Yourself
Make time for relaxation and self-care.
Crisis fatigue can be exhausting, so taking care of yourself is important.
verify to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly.
It allows you to care for yourself more effectively as you are dealing with the stressor.
Take Action
Crisis fatigue can sometimes lead to feelings of paralysis and inaction.
This sense of helplessness can cause stress that adds to feelings of fatigue.
it’s possible for you to’t solve every problem yourself.
Nor are you expected to.
Focus on doing what you’re able to when you’re able to.
it’s possible for you to also talk to a mental health professional if you need additional support.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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