We all acknowledge the crucial role of home quarantine and social distancing in curbing the spread of diseases. However, this necessary isolation can take a toll on our mental health. As social beings, we are not used to extended periods of seclusion, and this can lead to emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, fear, insomnia, stress, and irritability.
In these challenging times, preserving our mental and emotional wellbeing is paramount. Here are some strategies to help you cope with the anxiety and depression associated with home quarantine.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
Your mindset significantly influences your emotional state and overall experience. Therefore, to avoid anxiety or severe depression during home quarantine, it's crucial to cultivate a positive outlook. Rather than viewing quarantine as a prison, see it as an opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones or engage in activities you've always wanted to do but never had the time.
If you've been working long hours, this could be an opportunity to bond with your kids or relax at home. Or, if work has been preventing you from learning a new skill, take advantage of your time at home to start learning!
Disconnect from News and Social Media
While it's important to stay informed about current events, excessive exposure to the news and social media can be harmful. These platforms often focus on negative news, which can heighten your anxiety or depression. Therefore, limit your news consumption and avoid endlessly scrolling through your social media feeds.
Maintain Your Routine As Much As Possible
Quarantine disrupts our daily routines, and this sudden change can be a source of anxiety. To mitigate this, try to stick to your regular routine as much as possible. Wake up, eat breakfast, and get ready for the day as you usually would. If you can't work from home, use this time to learn a new skill. Try to end your day and go to bed at your regular times to maintain a sense of normalcy.
Stay Connected
Regular communication with others can help alleviate anxiety. Fortunately, in today's digital age, quarantine doesn't mean total isolation. You can use chat, SMS, calls, and video conferencing to stay connected with the world. Joining support groups on social media and communicating with others experiencing similar situations can also be comforting, providing a form of at-home therapy.
Taking care of your mental health during quarantine is crucial. Make sure to maintain your emotional and mental wellbeing as best as you can. Remember to stay positive and understand that quarantine is temporary. Soon, life will return to normal, so hang in there!