Coping with Self-Isolation During COVID-19
It can be very difficult to have good mental health while self-isolating during COVID-19. As humans, we need connection, so it can be very tough not to visit with friends and family. Feelings of depression and anxiety can become strong during this stressful and sometimes lonely time. The pandemic has forced us all to reconsider how to have good mental health while we stay home and physically distance from others. Below are tips on how to survive self-isolation during this pandemic:
1. The Basics
Go Outside
Luckily we are all still allowed to go outside and exercise! Take time each day to go for a walk, run, bike ride, skateboard, scooter, or rollerblade. Going outside will help to manage that cabin fever as well as boost your mood! The outdoors increases feel good hormones like endorphin and dopamine production in your brain!
Talk to People
To manage feeling lonely remember to schedule time to speak with friends and family on the phone. There are also many, many free apps that you can use to virtually chat with people like facetime and Zoom. You can also book virtual counselling sessions to speak to a professional! If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and you have no one to talk to remember that you can always call Nova Scotia’s Mental Health Crisis Line at 1-888-429-8167.
Turn Off the News
Listening to news about COVID-19 can increase stress, depression, and anxiety! So, remember to limit the amount of news you watch and listen to each day to protect your wellbeing.
2. MORE Ideas
Make Your Bed Each Morning
Making your bed each morning is a great way to start the day. It gives you a sense of accomplishment by completing a task. By starting your day by completing this task, it can help you to complete more tasks during the day and thus help to make you feel more productive. Which will help to improve your mental health.
Start a Daily ‘To Do’ List
Write on your calendar, phone, or piece of paper one different task you can do each day. Procrastination can be strong when you have all the time in the world. By writing down a task per day, it can be a tiny motivation to help you actually complete it. The task can my small like sweeping your kitchen floor or stretching for 10 minutes and help you feel good with accomplishing a task.
Meet Jules Smith
Jules Smith, MEd, RCT, CCC, is a Halifax-based therapist who works with individuals experiencing loneliness, depression, anxiety, and other life challenges. They provide a supportive, non-judgmental space to reflect on personal experiences, feel more connected, and explore meaningful ways to move forward.
