How to Survive Quarantine Life

Covid-19 has created a rocky start to 2020, and this year, without a doubt, has presented more challenges than most of us have experienced in our lifetime. As a result, the morale of people around the world has decreased. In fact, the USA has recorded an increase in the number of people experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can be a worrying time, but you don’t have to let it take control. Here’s my best advice on how to survive life in quarantine.

Tip 1: Stay Busy

The less time you have to yourself, the less time you have to think – and the less anxiety you’re likely to feel. Stay busy. If you have work to do, do it. If your kids are at home, come up with new, fun ways to help them learn new things. If you have lost your job and you’re feeling a little helpless, take up a new hobby.

a dad with his daughters during quarantine working from home

Try a 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle, test out some new recipes, find a fascinating documentary or TV series that you can lose yourself in, write a journal or try creating a kid’s book, find a new hobby, and of course, read books. There are plenty of things you can do to turn isolation into a learning experience for yourself.

Tip 2: Spend Time With Family

You might not be able to travel very far, or you may not want to, but try to spend as much quality time with family as possible. And that means actually “being present”. Sitting around playing PlayStation doesn’t equate to quality time with the kids. Consider fun games you could play together and relish the time you have. You may never have so much free time at home again!

Tip 3: Remain Informed

Keep up to date on the latest news but try not to obsess about it. It’s important that you pay attention to the latest statistics or outbreaks in your local area so you know what you do and where to avoid, but be wary of fake news that may be circulating. And try not to pay any attention to fear-mongering.

Tip 4: Exercise

As long as you’re not experiencing any of the symptoms of coronavirus, exercise is excellent for physical and mental wellbeing. The World Health Organization recommends you spend 150 minutes a week on moderate-intensity activities or 75 minutes a week on vigorous exercise. If your local gym is closed, try the following:

Walk around the house
Dance
Play with the kids
Clean
Do an online class
Take a walk outside
Go for a run

Tip 5: Remember It’s Not Forever

When the Spanish Flu hit the USA in 1918, almost 30% of Americans were infected, and over 500,000 people died. The Spanish Flu lasted over 12 months and infected more than 500 million people world-wide. And while these figures are indeed devastating and unnerving, the fact is that the world recovered. And although it might seem daunting at the moment, the world will again recover from Covid-19.

If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression while you’re in isolation, or you just feel like you need someone to talk to who understands, don’t be afraid to reach out. Most mental health professionals are currently offering telehealth appointments. Or if you prefer, feel free to contact me today and I’d be more than happy to schedule a chat.