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Working from home as a creative and feeling burnt out? You’re not alone.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health
Since the pandemic started a year ago, we’ve had to grapple with isolation, anxiety, grief, and other negative emotions—on top of simply surviving in these uncertain times. Being in this stressful state for so long affects both the body and the mind.
As a creative, you’ve probably struggled with inspiration, mental fog, or trouble creating work you’re happy with. Over time, this can impact productivity. Some days, motivation is low. Other days, you want to work, but stress drains your energy, making it hard to focus.
Accepting and Addressing Overwhelm
What to do?
First, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed—it’s natural. These times aren’t easy, and making it this far is already an achievement.
Creatives are three times more likely to experience mental health issues, with anxiety and depression being the most common. That’s why prioritizing mental health is crucial.
Building Healthy Habits
Taking care of your mental health requires the same diligence as caring for your physical health. The good news? What’s good for the body is good for the mind. Healthy sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise all contribute to a happier, more focused state.
How Do We Stay Creative?
The pandemic affects everyone differently, so coping methods vary. Some creatives turn to art for relief, while others struggle when art becomes a source of stress.
Here’s how some of our designers at A2 Design Lab maintain their mental well-being:
Staying Organized
For MC, having a clear schedule helps her stay productive. “I make sure I have a to-do list every week. Seeing all my tasks at once can feel overwhelming, but breaking them into daily goals reduces stress and helps me stay creative.” She also prioritizes relaxation to prevent burnout.
Exploring Other Creative Outlets
Joan finds it helpful to engage in creative exercises outside of her usual work. “I challenge myself with projects related to my interests, and I feel accomplished when I learn something new.” She also believes remote work is an opportunity for growth. “Now is the time to take on activities that help us improve.”
Finding Motivation Through Mindset
Hannah relies on faith to maintain a positive outlook. “It’s important to put my mind in the right space. This helps me manage multiple projects and reminds me of how much I enjoy the creative process.” She also emphasizes the importance of seeking support from colleagues, friends, and family.
Using Art as an Expression
Dar sees art as a way to express emotions and advocate for change. “Art and design provide comfort and distraction, but they also serve as a powerful voice for action and improvement.” She believes utilizing design to channel emotions is not only therapeutic but also a call for progress.
Recognizing Burnout and Taking Breaks
We’re all in this together.
Hope isn’t lost, and a better “new normal” is on the horizon. But if things become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to step back. Recognizing burnout is key—take breaks, seek help, and return when you’re ready.
Your well-being is what matters most. The world can wait.
Stay safe and well. A friendly reminder from A2 Design Lab.
Mental Health Resources
If you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Here are some helpful resources:
International Suicide Hotlines
Credits
Illustration/Designer: Joan Aguila
Research by: Emerald Singh
Writer: Chris Ignacio