Self isolation means staying indoors and completely avoiding contact with anyone. You need to do this if you or a family member has shown any symptoms related to Covid-19 to prevent the spread of infection. The Government advice now states to phone your GP but DO NOT visit the GP surgery, hospital or local pharmacy.
What will happen when I self-isolate?
Whilst it’s a daunting prospect, remember that self isolation doesn’t mean emotional isolation, and it doesn’t have to be isolating. Try to keep in mind that this is only temporary, and staying in touch with friends and family will help ease the stress and strain caused by COVID-19.
Stay connected and socialise…
- Check that you have the right phone numbers and email addresses of the people you care about. Staying in touch has actually never been easier, so make the most of the various available tech platforms and curb any loneliness with plenty of good conversation and face to face (via screen) interaction
- If you haven’t already, seek out and join the local Facebook page for your street or postcode and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need any supplies or otherwise
- Agree regular check-in times with your close friends and family to help ease your worries and boost your mood
Stay positive…
- Try and focus on things that are positive in your life and do things that make you happy
- Take care of your body as well as your mind. Eat as well as you can, catch up on your sleep, exercise, stretch or meditate and take time to unwind
- Dance and listen to music – everyone has a favourite artist or track that makes them smile so embrace it. Or re-visit your favourite albums and take a trip back in time!
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
Structure your days
Whilst it will be easy to fall into bad habits when in the house all day, try to establish a small but flexible routine to keep a sense of normality…
- Shower every day and get dressed
- Set time aside every day for relaxation, exercise, and finally tackle that To Do list!
- Keep to regular meal times rather than falling into a habit of grazing or picking all day
- Why not try and learn something new – a new language, a new skill or re-visit an old one
So whilst this is an unimaginably difficult time for everyone, it really is important to try and stay upbeat. So open the windows make the most of the opportunity to slow down and stay connected!