The Mayflower Community, Grinnell IA, is closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic “reopening” process in Iowa. (“Reopening” in quotes because some of us never closed. Actually, it is really a relaxation of restrictions.)
As a populace, we know a lot more about COVID-19 then we did last January. However, assumptions and discoveries are still being made. Most importantly, the coronavirus has not been eradicated nor has a vaccine been developed to help prevent infections. To be sure, this virus is very infectious and potentially deadly.
As statewide restrictions are being modified and lifted (business reopenings, 50% capacity limitations eliminated, larger gatherings sanctioned), it is still critical to observe safety precautions. Succinctly, that is face masks, social distancing, thorough hygiene, and symptom observation and response.
The Mayflower Community brings to your attention the following information provided in the June 9th “CNN Health with Dr. Sanjay Gupta” email newsletter, “Quarantine fatigue is real.”
“If you’ve found you’re no longer disinfecting your hands as often, or becoming more lenient toward unnecessary trips outside, you’re not alone. This unintentional phenomenon is “caution fatigue,” and you have your brain to blame.
You were likely vigilant at the pandemic’s outset, consistently keeping up with ways to ensure you didn’t get infected with the coronavirus, or infect others. The threat was new and urgent to your brain. And driven by the human instinct for self-preservation, fresh fear motivated you to eagerly adhere to recommended safety precautions. Fast-forward three months, and that sense of immediacy may have faded.
Caution fatigue has been observed in previous or everyday life situations, such as when you ignore an alarm of some sort, and don’t take it seriously because you’ve heard it before. This mental state happens for a few reasons, including chronic stress, decreased sensitivity to warnings and the inability to process new information with others.
You can combat quarantine fatigue with self-care, conversations with loved ones, and shifting your mindset so following guidelines seems rewarding instead of dreadful.”
— Bob Mann, Sales & Marketing Director
