I CHANGED DURING LOCKDOWN
I used to be a happy-go-lucky, optimistic person and negative things didn’t get me down as I always felt it was possible to overcome them. I had a lot of energy, was sociable and in general felt on top of the world. I had great plans for my future.
Now I just want to stay home, sleep a lot and withdraw from people. I don’t even want to talk to my friends on the phone or on social media. I’m not motivated to continue my studies and have even stopped playing with my dogs.
I feel like a loser. I don’t know this demotivated person I’ve become. I’m still young. I can’t continue my life like this. What’s happening to me? Jacqui, email
What you’re describing are the typical symptoms of lockdown syndrome (or adjustment disorder, as it’s better known in psychiatric circles). It’s something affecting many South Africans right now, so you’re not alone. The coronavirus pandemic has changed our lives to such a degree that we need to readjust to a new normal.
The symptoms of lockdown syndrome are a general feeling of sadness, loss of interest in activities, tiredness, lack of energy, lack of motivation and withdrawal from friends and family.
There are a number of things you can do to address this. Firstly, if you’re concerned that you’re depressed, speak to your doctor about using a low dose of an antidepressant to help you to get going again. You should stay on the medication for at least six months. Secondly, stop being so hard on yourself. What you’re feeling is understandable. Simply start doing a little more every day to try to get yourself into the swing of things again.
Limit your social media consumption, specifically with regard to the coronavirus. Catch up on the news at a specific time every day and then switch off.
Do things that bring you joy, whether it’s watching nature videos or reading. Draw up a bucket list for the future – we’re not going to be in lockdown forever. Start doing some exercise to boost your endorphin levels. See yourself as a silkworm in a cocoon who’s getting ready to come out again.
Don’t rely solely on the online lessons. Get in touch with fellow students and create a group on Zoom where you can have regular virtual meetings to discuss