Perception of Time Has Shifted During COVID-19, as per New Survey Findings

Key Findings:

• Over 80% of survey respondents in the UK reported a changed perception of time during lockdown.
• Possible factors influencing this include increased stress, reduced social interaction, and altered routines.
• The monotonous daily routine and lack of novel experiences can contribute to a distorted sense of time.

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, our perception of time seems to have taken a unique turn. Some days feel unending while months appear to vanish in an instant. This is not just an isolated phenomenon. A survey in the UK revealed that more than 80% of participants experienced a shift in their time perception during lockdown restrictions.

Comprehending the Time Distortion

Several factors interplay to influence how individuals experience time distortion. Experts suggest that heightened stress, advancing age, reduced task load, and lower contentment associated with limited social interactions can lead to a slower perception of time. On the other hand, younger, socially satisfied individuals typically perceive time as passing more quickly.

The Sudden Change and Extended Isolation

The abrupt and radical changes brought by the pandemic have significantly impacted our perception of time. Sanam Hafeez, a neuropsychologist from Columbia University, explains that the initial lack of clarity and the ensuing months of isolation have led to a prolonged period of anxiety and disappointment.

The monotony of our daily routine, along with economic uncertainty, health concerns, and missed life milestones, has created a constant state of discontentment. This further distorts our time perception.

The Role of Memory and Daily Routine

Our memory also plays a pivotal role in our sense of time. Psychiatrist Pavan Madan explains that the more novel experiences we have, the longer time appears to last. The substantial reduction in novel experiences during the pandemic, such as social outings or vacations, has inadvertently slowed down our time perception.

Furthermore, the loss of our routine, with its clear distinction between weekdays and weekends, has disrupted our sense of time. Without structure and landmarks, it becomes challenging to gauge time's passage accurately.

Impact on the Brain

The loss of routine and the ensuing changes in our daily lives have a profound impact on our brain's functioning. Hafeez points out that many people have been experiencing sleep disturbances, anxiety, and even depressive symptoms due to the lack of socialization, limited outdoor time, and the overall feeling of stagnation.

Our brains are continually trying to adjust to these changes, but the loss of routine can be particularly challenging for some. Being stuck in a monotonous cycle can lead to feelings of helplessness and stagnation.

Understanding the Slow and Fast

Moe Gelbart, a psychologist, highlights the dual nature of time distortion experienced by many individuals. While some feel days dragging on, others perceive larger chunks of time, such as weeks, as passing quickly.

This phenomenon can be attributed to the combination of a slow-paced daily routine and an uncertain future. The brain struggles to process the pandemic's impact, making it difficult to rely on past patterns and routines to gauge time's passage.

Tips for Resetting Your Internal Clock:

• Establishing a Routine: Implement a daily routine involving waking up at a regular time, dressing, and setting up a designated workspace.
• Regular Outdoor Time: Prioritize outdoor activities like walks or breaks from work to enjoy the uplifting effects of fresh air on your overall well-being.
• Maintain Social Connections: Stay connected with friends and family through phone calls, video chats, or virtual gatherings. This reduces feelings of loneliness and fosters a sense of support.
• Manage Your Sleep Schedule: Avoid oversleeping. Wake up as usual and utilize the extra time productively, such as learning a new skill or pursuing a personal hobby.
• Incorporate Meaningful Events: Plan meaningful and purposeful activities into your day, be it a morning walk or a virtual happy hour with friends. These events serve as markers for time passing.
• Practice Mindfulness Meditation: Engage in mindfulness practices to enhance self-awareness of your emotions and judgments, cultivating a sense of calm amidst the distorted perception of time.

Your Perception of Time Is Not an Anomaly

Remember that your altered time perception during the pandemic is not unique. While we cannot control external circumstances, we can find ways to cope and adapt. It is crucial to recognize and accept these changes, embracing the uniqueness of this period until life returns to a more familiar rhythm.