There’s no doubt the past 18 months have been challenging. The way we work, live, and engage with one another has changed significantly, leaving many of us lacking motivation, energy and generally feeling a bit ‘blah’.
This feeling isn’t coincidental. In fact, it’s a result of our continued emotional response to the COVID-19 pandemic and now has a name – languishing.
Languishing is a relatively new term and there is a lot to learn about what it is and how to deal with it. However, putting a name to what you or someone you are concerned about is feeling could be the first step to helping you seek support.
What is languishing?
Languishing is commonly described as the feeling of ‘blah’. If you find yourself experiencing a sense of stagnation, emptiness, or indifference you could be languishing. You still have energy and a sense of hope, but you are feeling aimless and without joy.
Symptoms of languishing can include reduced motivation, drive, ability to focus and declining productivity. If you are languishing you aren’t experiencing mental illness, but you’re not achieving mental wellbeing either. You may be starting to feel emotionally and physically exhausted, and not living to your full capacity.
What can I do if I am languishing?
Converge International, Monash Health’s EAP provider, has offered some strategies to help you if you are languishing. Andrew Jones, Principal Consultant at Converge International, also discussed languishing during the Q&A of the employee wellbeing forum in August.
1. Break up tedious tasks
As languishing is often accompanied by a lack of focus, it can be difficult to stay engaged during the day. Therefore, set boundaries and give yourself some uninterrupted time to focus on your tasks. Remove distractions and allow yourself the freedom to give your full attention to your work. This will give you a sense of progress, increasing your joy and motivation, and reducing stress and anxiety.
2. Permission to enjoy
In times of uncertainty, ensure to enjoy activities outside of work. This may include finding new challenges, enjoyable experiences, or new projects to concentrate your time and energy on. This could include trying new recipes, watching a new television series, or starting a new video game. These experiences give you a sense of direction, are relaxing and give you back some energy.
3. Connect with nature
The pandemic has largely disrupted our routines and you may be spending more time at home. It is important to break up your day by enjoying some fresh air and getting some sunlight. If you are working from home, having a change of scenery can give you a chance to refocus and rediscover your energy. Try to incorporate going for a walk, eating lunch outside or kicking the footy in the backyard after work.
4. Get active
When we are feeling overwhelmed, we forget to focus on the basics like physical activity. However, staying active helps us feel better and improves our ability to cope with stress. There are many ways you can keep active during the day that can increase your enthusiasm and help you focus. This could include putting on music and dancing, stretching at your desk or committing to a new workout challenge.
If you or someone you are concerned about is languishing and needs someone to talk to, please reach out through the Employee Assistance Program on 1300 687 327 and one of their specialist counsellors will be in touch.
For additional information, resources and advice on health and wellbeing, please visit the Monash Health COVID-19 employee website.
Approved by Karen Lowe.