Feeling exhausted? Whether you find it difficult to drift off at night or impossible to get up on time in the morning, everyone has been struggling with their sleep and it has sent our moods plummeting downwards.
With the combination of stress, extra pressure from work, constant changes to our daily routines and anxieties around incoming vaccines all in the midst of trying to celebrate Christmas, there's no wonder we're all feeling some kind of fatigue.
To help you get through December and tackle the lockdown fatigue we've found some simple tips to help.
Know yourself
It's important to recognise when we're struggling before it escalates into something much worse.
If you've been juggling increased stress and depleted motivation levels, you will eventually burn out completely. Recognising you need a break or help isn't a sign of weakness - it demonstrates your emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
Sleep hygeine
Just because you've been to sleep doesn't mean you got a good night's rest. Broken and disturbed sleep will leave you feeling just as tired in the morning and make it even harder to get up. And napping more often isn't the solution.
Practicing good sleep hygiene can help you to get consistent and quality rest. It's all about putting yourself in the best position to sleep well each and every night. That means creating and sticking to a schedule that works for you.
Unplug those electronics and take advantage of whatever relaxes you. Whether that's a hot bubble bath, listening to a calming podcast or reading a book, it's important to unwind before you settle in for the night.
Diet
Food and mood come hand in hand. The better you eat, the better you are likely to feel.
It can be easy to turn to comfort food and treats during the colder months, but try to stick to a healthy, mixed diet. It will help you mentally and physically.
Look into the light
One of natures many free gifts, natural sunlight helps us feel better mentally while topping us up on much needed vitamin D.
Try to get as much natural light as possible. Mix up your work start time and breaks so you can go for a short walk when it's still light and bright.
Distract and enjoy
Do what makes you happy! When you're feeling drained it can be difficult to do anything or know where to start.
So begin with something easy and do what you actually enjoy. A task or hobby that rewards you with satisfaction and happiness can be the catalyst you need right now to jump-start your motivation.
Routine
Cultivating healthy daily habits into your routine can help you feel less fatigued and drained from the pressures of everyday life.
Getting up and going to bed at the same time each day, taking regular breaks and exercising are all simple steps that can make a big difference.
Establishing a routine can seem daunting and sometimes impossible, but that's why you need to make a plan that works for you. Don't copy someone else and put added pressure on yourself to stick to something that isn't achievable. Plan what you can do and practise, before you know it you'll find it happens naturally.
Want to talk about it?
There's no shame in asking for help. It's easier said than done, but try not to talk yourself out of seeking support.
If you need help, we're here 24/7. Call the 24/7 coronavirus support line on (01472) 256256 and select option 3.