Understanding and Coping with the Latest Emotional State
Are You Languishing?
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on a new emotional state that many people are experiencing: languishing. This state is characterised by feeling uninterested, unmotivated and stuck. Languishing can be a challenging emotion to deal with, as it can lead to a lack of productivity, creativity and overall well-being.
Understanding Languishing
Languishing is a state of mind that is distinct from both depression and burnout. While depression is characterized by feelings of sadness and hopelessness and burnout is characterised by feelings of exhaustion and detachment, languishing is characterised by feeling empty, disinterested and lacking in motivation. It's a sense of "meh" that can make even the simplest tasks feel like a chore.
The Impact of Languishing
Languishing can have a significant impact on our lives. When we're languishing, we may find it challenging to focus on work or engage in activities that bring us joy. It can also impact our relationships and overall sense of well-being. Over time, languishing can lead to more severe mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.
Coping with Languishing
Fortunately, there are several strategies that individuals can use to cope with languishing. Some strategies include:
- Practicing self-compassion: Be kind and gentle with yourself, and don't beat yourself up for not feeling motivated or productive.
- Finding purpose: Identify activities or goals that bring you meaning and purpose and focus on those.
- Engaging in self-care: Prioritize activities that help you feel relaxed, rejuvenated and at peace.
- Connecting with others: Reach out to friends and family, and make time for social activities that bring you joy.
- Seeking help when needed: If your feelings of languishing persist or become severe, seek help from a mental health professional.
In conclusion, languishing is a prevalent emotional state that many people are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It can have a significant impact on our lives, but there are strategies we can use to cope. By practicing self-compassion, finding purpose, engaging in self-care, connecting with others, and seeking help when needed, we can overcome languishing and move towards a more fulfilling life. Remember, it's okay to feel stuck sometimes and it's never too late to seek help and support.