Languishing is a state of being far from one's best self, even in the absence of extreme stress. Core Keyes labeled it as an "emptiness and stagnation, constituting a life of quiet despair" and the American Psychological Association (APA) defined it as an absence of mental health. It is characterized by dissatisfaction, lack of engagement, and apathy, reflected in words like 'deteriorating' and 'wasting away', which refer to a decrease in energy.
The coronavirus pandemic has markedly disrupted many lives, leading to high levels of fear, grief, and anxiety. This crisis of prolonged isolation from loves ones and an unceasing sense of insecurity has left many people languishing. A moderate level of stress is healthy, but an enduring state of overwhelming stress takes a toll on both the body and the mind, leading to exhaustion of all kinds, difficulty focusing and remembering, increased irritability, cynicism, and apathy.
Languishing is not as obvious as more extreme mental health conditions, so it can be hard to identify. While one might answer 'I'm fine' to the ubiquitous 'how are you?', others may be languishing, masking the state they are in. As time passes and we shift away from the pandemic, many people are processing the weight of the difficulties that had to be pushed aside during the crisis. It is possible to feel a spectrum of emotions, such as gratitude, joy, enthusiasm, and simultaneously feel the effects of languishing.
The coronavirus pandemic has caused many people to experience a form of mental fatigue, known as languishing. It is an emptiness, apathy, and stagnation that can go unnoticed. However, it is important to recognize the symptoms of languishing in order to better understand ourselves and the people around us. As the pandemic wanes, many of us will be processing the intense emotional burden of the past, while simultaneously finding ourselves capable of gratitude, joy, and enthusiasm.
Recent research has suggested that those who suffer from languishing are more likely to develop more severe mental health problems such as PTSD, anxiety, and major depression.
Burnout and languishing both can have an adverse effect on one's mental health, but there are important distinctions between them. Burnout is specific to work and is caused by a mismatch between values and skills, whereas languishing is a global state of being that affects all facets of life, but does not meet the criteria of a mental health disorder. People in a state of languishing might feel 'stuck' and unable to liberate themselves, though simultaneously they lack the energy and ambition to strive for true wellbeing.
Mental health is an increasingly important topic, and understanding the differences between languishing, burnout, existential crises, and flourishing are essential for getting the most out of life. In order to do this, it is important to take proactive steps to develop the skills and psychological resources necessary to understand and act upon our own well-being.
Languish is an unpredictable emotion that can last for days, weeks or even longer. Those who are in a state of languish may be at higher risk of developing depression, and its associated deep emotions can even be predictors of anxiety disorders and depression. While those with more severe mental health issues will benefit from therapy, many who experience languish can benefit from developing their own coping strategies.
Though it may be similar, an existential crisis is distinct from languish. It is characterised by apathy, disconnectedness and a feeling of stagnation; but its roots are much deeper and can lead to feelings of dread, anxiety and negative self-worth. People experiencing an existential crisis often question the direction of their life, relationships and work. They can feel disappointed in their current circumstances and lack the confidence to make any changes.
Flourishing is the opposite of languishing, and is characterised by engagement, joy and connection to life purpose. People who are flourishing are energised, self-assured and have the skills and resources to adapt to life's difficulties. Additionally, studies have shown that those who are flourishing are likely to be healthier and require fewer health treatments. Flourishing gives people the confidence that challenges are achievable.
Dr. Martin Seligman's PERMA model suggests that by actively cultivating Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishment, people can reach a higher level of life satisfaction. In addition to this, Dr. Lynn Soots outlines flourishing as the pursuit and engagement of an authentic life which can bring inner joy and happiness. Soots emphasises that flourishing isn't an unchanging trait, and with effort and practice, it can be achieved.
Coaching is one of the most effective ways to move out of languish. Coaches can help people build resilience and emotional regulation skills and hold them accountable to encourage change. For those who require additional help, behavioural therapy may also be needed to address underlying causes such as post-traumatic stress disorder or depression.
Languishing is a common feeling, but it's possible to beat it and live your best life. With the right support, coaching, and techniques, mental fitness and flourishing can become habits. By focusing on the PERMA framework - Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishments - it's possible to find the ability to flourish in our lives. Here are some tips to help:
The symptoms of languishing, such as sadness, apathy, and feeling lost, have been linked to poor psychological and physical health. In light of this, organisations should be aware of the potential effects that the pandemic may have on their workforce and respond with initiatives to help support employee's mental health and adapt their workplace practices.
Organisations can shift their focus from identifying what is wrong and towards what is right, to foster a healthy, flourishing culture. Leaders can encourage resilience in their employees and help them take ownership over their health and wellbeing. Stress is unavoidable during this time, but it can be managed through conversations about resilience and wellbeing, and by supporting employees in building up their capacity to remain strong.
Organisations should also be aware of and address any emotional exhaustion that may result from a crisis. This can be done by reducing burn out throughout the workforce, engaging with employees, and fostering purpose and passion. Diversity and inclusion initiatives can also help to create a safe and healthy environment.
Organisations should continue to share best practices, in order to further cultivate a sense of well-being. This may involve encouraging events, insights, and ideas to bring employees together and help them to become more resilient. By providing employees with the appropriate guidance and the necessary support, organisations can help them to flourish, increase their confidence, and feel empowered.
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