As the pandemic continues, our lifestyle has become a complex experience. The social and cultural distractions meant to occupy and entertain us as Trinidadians have stopped. At first, it was an opportunity to work on ourselves. Now, the days’ drag and weeks have passed since we have interacted with someone. Many of us have little power over our movement and what is happening now is beyond our control.
These experiences result
in moments of boredom.
Some persons may feel
differently. They have redesigned their lives to make most of what the pandemic
has to offer (congratulations). For others, it is a painful experience. These
persons are used to organizing nights out with friends and loved ones. People
are at a complete loss on how to kill hours with the COVID-19 restrictions.
The anxiety behind
this has caused confusion between boredom and the diagnosis of depression —
it’s hard to tell the difference. According to WebMD, boredom can appear in two ways, feeling tired (lethargy) and feeling
irritated (agitation). It is a state of mind that leaves you unmotivated if the
individual is not mentally stimulated. With depression, you are in a constant
state of unhappiness, worthlessness, and paranoia.
Five signs that you are experiencing boredom:
- You want to do things, but not what is in front of you (TV, reading a book)
- You have an unfocused feeling in your brain engaging in pointless activities
- You are involved in risk-taking behavior (drugs, alcohol, COVID parties)
- You are feeling overwhelmed with the monotonous activities (work, children)
- Your daily life feels like an endless suffering
A Humanities &
Social Sciences study stated that bored persons find it challenging to follow
COVID protocols, affecting their self-control (benefits outweigh the costs).
Studies have shown that men are more likely than women to get bored; kids are
more likely than their parents to get bored. With the COVID-19 restrictions, we
can find ways to break the boredom, keep more people inside and stay safe.
Psychiatrists advised
that boredom can be a sign of depression. Boredom, lack of interest in
anything, and hopelessness and helplessness are leading symptoms of depression.
If you have experienced these symptoms, visit the nearest mental health center.
Breaking COVID-boredom
Why are you bored?
Boredom can do more good than bad. Figuring out why you are displeased with the
activity can help you find a solution.
Here are five ways
that you can combat boredom:
- Find activities that you have the energy to engage with, like short vocational courses (online), reading, or writing.
- Get fit or go for a walk. Healthy living is one of the most popular trends during the pandemic. Persons are reaching for those dumbbells and waist belts to improve physical and mental health.
- Interact with friends and family using video apps. It is a great way to interact with loved ones and engage in games.
- Become a gardener. Houseplants are inexpensive and easy to maintain. If you do not know where to start, join an online gardening community for tips and tricks.
- Start an online business. It is quick and easy. With a bit of research and a small investment in your plan, you can become the next Amazon (aim for the stars).
For parents, plan a
family event with the children. Painting, reading, watching a movie, or online
gaming can alleviate feelings of boredom for young children. They have a
natural curiosity and a need to explore.
Allow children to
talk about what is bothering them and encourage open communication.
“I am bored” can
represent many things, especially when it is a repeated feeling.
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