Pandemic fatigue and how to take charge of your well-being

Abstract

This article discusses the profound mental health crisis resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, fulfilling the forecast made by the United Nations in May 2020. The crisis has especially impacted care home and supported housing staff and residents in Malta, where residents face high vulnerability due to age and health factors. Despite initial success in safeguarding the elderly during the first wave through measures like staff lockdowns, subsequent waves saw a rise in cases and deaths in residential facilities. The constant stress and pressure of these difficult working conditions have led to increased risks of psycho-emotional fatigue, compassion fatigue, and burnout among professional care workers. The article emphasizes that these feelings are a normal sign of caring and calls for urgent action to address the mental and emotional well-being of those affected.