There are many reasons why you may be facing a period of isolation. A loved one may be travelling, you may be physically housebound or restrictions may have been put in place to prevent the spread of infection. Whatever the reason, the idea of some time at home and away from our busy lives and hectic schedules may at first seem really appealing. But the reality may not be as you imagine.
Most of us are constantly busy, attending work meetings, seeing friends or doing the school run. We are always interacting with other people and sticking to a busy routine, whether we choose to or not. When this suddenly stops, life becomes very different. Here we look at some ways to cope with a sudden period of isolation and to help make sure it doesn’t have a negative effect on you.
- Keep in touch: Maintain online contact with as many people as you can, as often as possible. A sudden drop in social interactions will be one of the biggest changes to your day. Video call family and friends to see how they are and if they are also in isolation, ask how they are coping. Use this time as a reason to pick up the phone and catch up with someone you haven’t spoken to in a long time.
- Keep a routine: This is particularly important if you are working from home. Don’t be inclined to stay in your pajamas all day. Get dressed; wear something smart and you will boost your productivity. Try to separate your workspace from your living space so you can maintain a clear work-life balance.
- Eat well and exercise: Staying healthy is always important, but when confined to the house, making the extra effort to eat well will help your overall feeling of well-being. There are lots of companies offering online ordering and home delivery of fresh produce and healthy meal plans. Resist the urge to order unhealthy take-aways! Try to keep fit by using technology to live-stream exercise classes or download fitness apps. Mindfulness apps can also be useful to relieve any stress and anxiety you may be feeling.
- Embrace the extra time: Try to think about all the extra time you will gain whilst being at home. You might usually be commuting to work for an hour a day, spending time in the supermarket or doing multiple school runs. Try and make use of this extra time by setting a goal to do something productive. It could be aiming to read a book, learn a new skill or even just clearing out the garage.
- Reach out to the older generation: If you are young, healthy, and technology savvy, some time alone shouldn’t pose as much of a logistical problem. But consider the older generation, who may depend on in person visits to providers to fulfil their needs. Perhaps you could offer to help them set-up online grocery or pharmaceutical deliveries, ask if they would like you to help organize some home help, or maintenance, or healthcare visitors. But just picking up the phone for a chat is also a simple, but meaningful way to brighten someone’s day.