COVID-19: Managing Anxiety and Isolation during Quarantine

A guest post by Asline Blanc of Blanc Notes and Mental Health Bahamas

Social distancing is very new to many people. Because we are living in a digital era social distancing is almost taboo for the majority of the world's population. We have become so used to shaking hands, going out to brunch, meeting up for meetings as opposed to making a simple phone call and so much more. Overturned travel plans, indefinite isolation, panic over limited resources and information overload could be a recipe for unchecked anxiety and feelings of isolation. Here are a few pointers that could help you survive the myriad negative thoughts about this uncertain time.

1.) Use This Time For Peaceful Introspection 

Amid all the chaos that is happening around the world today, indulging in quiet introspection can be very beneficial. Instead of focusing on the negative, use this as an opportunity to refocus your attention from the exterior to the interior. Doing one productive thing per day can lead to a more positive attitude. Meditate, get organized, or indulge in a new hobby as you've always wanted to. Avoid thinking about how these trying times have you feeling trapped or stuck, that will only stress you out more. This is your chance to slow down and focus on yourself.

2.) Maintain Your Normal Routine

Try and maintain some similarity of structure from the pre-quarantine days. For those individuals with children, sticking to a routine might be easier; however as you work from home, it could be tempting to fall into a more lethargic lifestyle, which could lead to negative thinking. Wake up around the same time, eat meals, shower, and workout at the same time. And more importantly, try to go to bed at the same time. You will be tempted to binge-watch every series you find interesting, but a lack of sleep can add to negative thinking. Sticking to your normal routine will keep you active and will also make it easier to readjust to the outside world when it’s time to get back to work.

3.) Do Not Overwatch The News/Media Posts

Social media is creating a lot of the anxiety that is happening today due to false news. To decrease your level of anxiety find a reliable news source such as the W.H.O or your local news stations to stay up to date. There is no need to watch the news every five minutes. Try to maintain a normal routine during the pandemic by interacting with your children, reaching out to family members and close friends.

4.) A Disorganized home Leads To A Chaotic Mind

With all the chaos going on outside the home, make sure the inside is organized and in order. Avoid working or eating in bed, eat at the kitchen table and work at your desk. Setting those boundaries will help you avoid a less productive and stressful day. Additionally, a cluttered home can cause you to become uneasy and claustrophobic of your environment- so keep it tidy.

5.) Use telehealth as an option to talk to a professional if your anxiety becomes unmanageable

Many licensed psychologists have now been subjected to using telehealth options to stay in contact with new and old patients. Reach out for help if your anxiety is reaching proportions that are uncontrollable without professional help. Doing your part to decrease the number of COVID-19 cases will certainly build mental strength to combat the stressful situation the whole globe is experiencing.