Many of us have been grappling with what some call “Mom Brain.” I often misplace my keys, find my phone in unusual spots like the refrigerator, and frequently forget what I was doing. These lapses seem like typical experiences for busy parents. However, in the past several months, my brain fog has intensified, and I suspect the pandemic is exacerbating the issue.
Since summer, concentrating on tasks such as reading and writing has become increasingly difficult. I often lose track of my thoughts after a minor distraction. Initially, I attributed this to juggling virtual schooling for my four children. Trying to manage work while assisting kids with their studies, troubleshooting technical issues, or calming meltdowns made focus nearly impossible. But even during school breaks, the fog persisted.
Completing tasks now takes me twice as long. It feels like my thoughts are stuck in mental quicksand, making writing and forming ideas a challenging endeavor. As someone who relies on clear thought for work, this is a significant hurdle.
Additionally, I’ve struggled with keeping track of the days and frequently mix up my children’s school schedules. There have been moments when I’ve completely forgotten my destination while driving, or even poured dog food into my salad instead of the dish. Once, I accidentally put an entire tray of fudge into the washing machine rather than the fridge, which was a heartbreaking waste of chocolate.
These experiences left me concerned about my mental health. Was I losing my mind, facing early menopause, or dealing with an underlying medical issue? After consultations with my therapist, gynecologist, and a naturopath, it became clear that I was experiencing pandemic brain fog—a shared struggle.
The ongoing stress of the pandemic has taken its toll. Balancing work, home life, and the demands of virtual schooling while processing the emotional weight of these unprecedented times has overwhelmed many of us. Whether you call it pandemic brain fog, brain fatigue, or quarantine brain, this mental haze is a common response to our current reality.
According to research shared by BBC, psychologists attribute this phenomenon to Cognitive Load Theory (CLT), developed by Australian educational psychologist John Sweller. This theory posits that our brains function as information-processing systems. While long-term memory can handle large amounts of information, working memory is limited to processing smaller chunks of new data. The pandemic has overloaded us with new information, pushing our working memory beyond its capacity.
Psychotherapist Laura Jensen explains that stress raises cortisol levels in the body. While cortisol helps us respond to challenges, prolonged exposure can lead to brain fog and other cognitive issues. Essentially, our executive function circuits become overwhelmed, prompting the brain to shut down as a means of self-preservation.
How to Combat Pandemic Brain Fog
So, how can we combat pandemic brain fog? Laura emphasizes the importance of self-care during these turbulent times. Prioritizing rest and nurturing your mind and body is crucial. When brain fog hits, don’t hesitate to step away and take a break.
Establishing a routine is also vital for you and your family. A structured approach can significantly reduce the time spent figuring out daily tasks as they arise. Additionally, it’s important to identify any triggers that contribute to brain fog and address those underlying issues.
The pandemic has forced drastic changes in our lives. Our routines have been disrupted, we’ve experienced isolation, and parenting responsibilities have doubled overnight. Acknowledging any brain fog you may be feeling and prioritizing your mental health is essential to surviving these chaotic times.
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Summary:
The pandemic has intensified experiences of brain fog, particularly among parents juggling multiple responsibilities. This phenomenon, often termed “pandemic brain fog,” is a common response to the overwhelming stress of these times. Understanding the cognitive limitations imposed by stress and establishing routines, while prioritizing self-care, can help mitigate these effects.
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