I’ve been grappling with what many call “Mom Brain” for quite some time. Misplacing my keys, finding my phone tucked away in the fridge, and often forgetting what I was doing has become all too common. I initially thought these were just the usual struggles many mothers face. However, in the past several months, my mental fog has escalated to alarming levels, likely exacerbated by the pandemic.
Since the summer, concentrating on tasks like reading and writing has become increasingly difficult. I find myself unable to recall my thoughts if interrupted, and I initially blamed the ongoing virtual schooling for my four kids. It’s nearly impossible to stay focused on a work project when every few minutes, one of my kids needs assistance, there’s a tech issue with their school app, or someone is having a meltdown over their assignments. Yet, even during school breaks, my brain felt sluggish.
Completing simple tasks now takes me twice as long because I struggle to concentrate. It’s as if my thoughts are moving through a thick mental fog. As a writer, this is a significant hurdle.
Additionally, I could never remember what day it was, and I often confused my children’s school schedules. There were several occasions when I found myself driving without recalling my destination. I once even poured dog food into my salad instead of the dish right beside me! And yes, I shed a few tears over ruining a batch of fudge by mistakenly putting it in the washing machine instead of the refrigerator.
This series of events triggered concern about my mental health. I wondered if I was experiencing early menopause, a medical condition, or simply losing my mind. After consulting with my therapist, gynecologist, and naturopath, it became clear: I was dealing with pandemic brain fog—and I’m not alone.
The ongoing stress from this relentless pandemic is impacting all of us. Balancing work, home responsibilities, and virtual schooling while navigating the emotional weight of this crisis has left many of our brains feeling overwhelmed. Whether you call it pandemic brain fog, brain fatigue, or quarantine brain, the inability to think clearly is a typical reaction to an atypical situation.
According to a BBC article, some psychologists attribute this phenomenon to Cognitive Load Theory (CLT). Developed by Australian psychologist John Sweller, CLT suggests our minds function as information processing systems. It explains how our brains process new information through working memory and store knowledge in long-term memory. While we can easily access stored information—thanks to our autopilot mode—working memory is limited in handling new data. The changes brought about by the pandemic have overloaded our brains, leaving little room for that autopilot mode we rely on. Furthermore, increased stress and anxiety further hinder our working memory capacity.
Psychotherapist Laura Bennett explains that prolonged stress triggers cortisol release, which can lead to brain fog and other issues. She notes, “Cortisol is the stress hormone that helps us manage tough situations, but excessive amounts can cause mental fatigue.” So, rest assured, you’re not losing it. Your executive function is likely overwhelmed, and your brain is seeking a form of self-care.
What Can Be Done to Alleviate Pandemic Brain Fog?
As a trauma specialist, Laura emphasizes the necessity of self-care during these challenging times. Prioritizing rest and nurturing both body and mind is essential. When brain fog strikes, don’t hesitate to take a break.
Establishing a routine for yourself and your family can also be beneficial. A structured approach reduces the time spent figuring things out in the moment. Additionally, identify any triggers that contribute to your brain fog and address them.
This pandemic has dramatically altered our daily lives. With disrupted routines, isolation from loved ones, and a doubling of parenting responsibilities, it’s crucial to acknowledge any brain fog you may be experiencing and actively work on prioritizing your mental and emotional health. This way, you can navigate these tumultuous times without losing control.
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Summary:
The pandemic has led to a significant increase in brain fog among many, particularly mothers juggling work and family responsibilities. The chronic stress and disruptions to daily life have overwhelmed our cognitive abilities, making it challenging to focus and remember tasks. Experts suggest practicing self-care, establishing routines, and addressing triggers to mitigate the effects of this phenomenon.
Keyphrase: pandemic brain fog
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