Unfortunately, I can't specifically deal with what each one of you may be going through individually at this time. We may all be in the same position regarding having to isolate. But that doesn't mean we all have the same amount of money saved, a business that can manage to survive or no vulnerable individuals that need taking care of. So below are just some of ways to help alleviate the problems, along with some examples of things you may want to stop doing, that could add to your anxiety.
If you have any financial worries it makes sense to try and reduce any outgoings that you have. Make calls to any loan providers that you have and see if they will grant you a holiday period. I called my Mortgage Company and they have frozen my Mortgage for 3 months without question.
Don't get cabin fever. We are supposed to be self-isolating but we're all still allowed to go out for exercise once a day. If you aren't a big fan of running or cycling, please don't underestimate the physical and mental health benefits of just going outdoors for a walk in the fresh air. Keep the recommended distance from others of course. If you have a garden, then why not do some of the jobs outside that you haven't got around to for some time. If you've never got around to them and never intended to, then maybe it's worth giving it a try.
Some of you may have been prepared for this and bought yourself loads of paint and other diy bits to get those jobs done around the house. My advice don't rush them, we may be in for the long haul so take your time instead of blitzing through them in a few days.
Social Media. For some of you this can be a welcome relief, looking at jokes and connecting with friends. For some of you though, Social Media can just add to your anxiety if all you keep seeing is doom and gloom posts or people arguing on Twitter. If that's the case, give it a rest, leave it alone.
News and the Media. If you find this is just constant doom and gloom, stop watching it. I can't say any easier than that, just stop torturing yourself.
Food. It may be tempting to start raiding the fridge on an hourly basis though bordom and for comfort. My main tip for you here is simple. When you go shopping, don't put the snacks in the trolley. The supermarket is literally what you call The Source. This is where it comes from. Write a list before you go, don't put tonnes of rubbish snacks on it and more importantly than anything, do not go to the supermarket when you feel hungry. Always visit with a list and with a full stomach.
Television. Watch things that make you happy, not things that you think you need to watch. It doesn't matter if it's a movie you've seen before or a series you've watched before. If you like it and watching it makes you happy, then watch it.
Call or face time friends. Don't just message people, call them. Nothing beats an actual conversation with someone you really enjoy spending time with. If you call, you get the full experience of engaging with someone socially, especially if you can video call.
There are some great apps on your phone for things like fitness, stretching and meditation. Why not have a search and give one of them a try, or all of them a try.
Avoid whatever stresses you or causes anxiety before bed. Sleep is so important for your health and wellbeing. Try to de-stress before bed with relaxation of some kind, such as reading. Don't sit staring at the TV or your Phone, googling Coronavirus.
Lastly. There is nothing wrong with acknowledging the severity of the situation that you find yourself in. But dwelling on it and replaying these emotions repeatedly will just drive you into a spiral of despair. If you find yourself going down the feeling of a victim, then get yourself out of that straight away. Right now, there is no "why me". Coronavirus didn't select you above everyone else. So, things won't be easy, but stay focused on the fact that this will end, there isn't a set time right now, but it will end.
I hope the 10 tips above for looking after your physical and mental health during this Coronavirus will be helpful. If you have any questions, then feel free to shoot me across a message via the website and I'll get back to you.
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