Being quarantined during the coronavirus pandemic isn’t easy. Isolation brings about loneliness, and loneliness can bring about symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. As a result, many are looking for ways of coping with loneliness during quarantine.
There is no single best way to get through this period of isolation. But you can employ various strategies to maintain good mental health and physical wellbeing. Whether you choose to keep yourself busy or connect with others despite the physical distance, there are ways to prevent the negative effects of being isolated.
If symptoms of loneliness or depression are interfering with your life, reach out to the mental health treatment center in Massachusetts.
6 Ways to Cope with Loneliness
There are many strategies you can use to overcome your current challenges. Here are six effective methods you can try.
1. Keep a Regular Schedule
Even though you’re not physically going to work, it’s best to keep your usual schedule as much as you can. Doing so will make you feel like everything is normal to some extent. If you usually wake up at 5 and go to work at 7, try to keep that up despite being at home.
2. Stay Up to Date and Informed
Part of staying alert and resilient through this trying time is by being up to date with current health information. It’s also vital that you are aware of the recommended precautionary measures. By staying informed, you will know how to protect your health.
One of the keys to coping with loneliness during quarantine is that you limit your media consumption. It can be harmful to your mental health to watch too many distressing news stories and read too many negative articles. As much as possible, only obtain information from reputable sites such as WHO, CDC, or your local health unit.
Hitting the “unfollow” button from sources with triggering posts.
3. Connect with Family and Friends
The best way to cope with loneliness while self-isolating is to connect with family and friends. You may be physically distant, but there are still many ways to connect with them. You can try non-traditional methods of communication, such as:
- Calling them on the phone
- Video chatting through Zoom or Facetime
- Posting and engaging with friends on social media
- Texting or chat through instant messenger
- Sending a postcard or letter
4. Work Out at Home
Besides your mental health, you should also focus on your physical wellbeing as they are linked to your overall health. Make sure you exercise at home regularly with simple activities such as:
- Stretch your body in the morning
- Perform simple workouts
- Go for walks in your neighborhood
- Stand up for a few minutes at a time
- Take deep breaths and practice meditation
- Yoga therapy
5. Fuel Your Creativity
Being creative is therapeutic, which makes it an ideal way of coping with loneliness during quarantine. You can channel your feelings when creating something, which is also a form of meditation. Some of the creative things you can do include:
- Learning calligraphy
- Writing in your journal
- Starting a daily blog
- Painting
- Crocheting or knitting
- Organizing your home
There are many programs, like art and music therapy, that use creativity to express emotions. Take some time to express your feelings through healthy hobbies.
6. Distract Yourself With Enjoyable Activities
One way you can cope with loneliness and isolation while quarantined is by distracting yourself with useful activities. Doing so will help you not think about the bad things happening outside, which can make you depressed. Instead, take on little projects, watch your favorite shows, and do other things that will pick up your mood.
The are many interesting and valuable activities you can do for a healthy distraction. These include:
- Read books or magazines
- Listen to audiobooks or podcasts
- Listen to your favorite songs
- Watching TV series or movies
- Play games like chess and Sudoku
Coping With Loneliness During Quarantine Is Possible
If you’re having a hard time coping with loneliness during quarantine and these methods aren’t working for you, don’t hesitate to contact Washburn House for help. Remember that there is always help available. Call addiction and mental health professionals at 855.298.3104 for help today.