How not to feel Depressed during quarantine

Our lives revolve around our work place, clubs, parks, movies, bar hopping, school, dinning in different restaurants, checking out new coffee shops, but seldom our home. That is why when Covid-19 Virus hit us, we were forced to lock down and quarantined ourselves.

Photo credit: theladders.com

We are being advised on how to protect our physical health, but many of us didn't care of the impact of the situation to our emotional and mental health until we start feeling depressed.

COVID-19 forced us to stay at home and is ruining our social lives. It’s also challenging because social isolation can actually make your depression worse.

Here are some ideas for making sure that your social isolation doesn’t turn into an episode of debilitating depression.

1. Acknowledge that isolation can have a negative impact.

The best way to address a problem is to acknowledge that it exists. If you can recognized the reason behind what you are feeling, then it doesn't feel so inescapable and you will feel that you can do something about it.

Here’s some evidence to consider:

Research has found that social isolation and loneliness is linked to worsened mental health, as well as physical health problems including cardiovascular issues and a higher risk of early death.

A 2018 study of older adults showed that loneliness and social isolation can affect sleep quality.

Other studies have found links between social disconnectedness, depression, and anxiety. 

In other words, if you’re feeling more depressed the longer you’re staying at home, remember, you are not alone.

2. Create a routine.

Mark the passage of time, so that you can recognize each morning as the start of a fresh new day, rather than having emotionally difficult days that feel endless.

Support healthy habits, like getting a full night’s sleep and body stretching on a regular basis.

Think of something to look forward to, like listening to energizing music while taking a shower.

3. Remember, you are still allowed to go out.

Let that sink in, we are still allowed to go out, with restrictions, Yes, the mere fact that we know we can still go out helps you fight depression.

You can still go outside, near your house and smell some fresh air or feel the warmth of the sun, just remember to follow your local protocols.

4. Find something to do while quarantined.

Being stuck at home doesn’t have to be all bad. In fact, it can be an opportunity to fix your moving chair, fix your faucet, clean the house, change your curtains or have movie marathon, dive in to new or long-forgotten hobbies, and other activities that lifts your spirit up.

5. We are now in a high teach era.

Feeling lonely? Open your phone and call your trusted friend or parents or grandparents. It is a good time for you to reconnect with the people who matters the most. Download Netflix or watch funny clips on YouTube. If you can sing and dance, you may download and try the Tiktok app. 

Instead of letting yourself feeling lonely, why not take this opportunity to take all the naps you want. Start baking or maybe it is time to try online job for an extra income.

Stop contemplating on negative thoughts because it will only ruin your balance. Always think that problems are created for us to be even stronger. It is actually an opportunity for us to discover new things about ourselves. Rise up, fight depression and fill your life with positivity.