WHAT CAN I DO TO COPE WITH THE EFFECTS OF THE COVID-19 QUARANTINE?

Many people have been experiencing higher-than-usual stress levels, so you are not alone if this sounds like you. So-called "quarantine fatigue" is a problem for many of us.

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has radically altered our daily routines, compelling us to spend more time indoors and develop new habits like wearing masks, socially isolating ourselves, and regularly sanitising high-touch areas. It has disrupted our routines, made it more difficult to schedule things in advance, and prevented us from engaging in many of the pastimes and social engagements we have always enjoyed. A return to "normal" is doubtful as the number of verified cases keeps climbing.

So how do you deal with the exhaustion caused by being quarantined? Here are seven suggestions to help you out.

One, know that your emotions are typical.

In light of the circumstances, it is natural to feel frustrated. Numerous people have expressed relief that the pandemic is finally gone. They have been quarantined for months and have been left bored and financially stressed as the coronavirus looks to be ruining their lives.

Nobody is doing well at the moment. And that's okay; those emotions are very natural. Simply put, this is the rational response to an irrational predicament. The key is to recognise the reality of these emotions without permitting yourself to act destructively.

Rethink the situation

It can be beneficial to acknowledge your feelings, even if only to yourself, and then make an effort to reframe them in a more favourable light.

Consider the following: "I am so sick of this!" Because I care about other people, because I know it's crucial, and because it takes everyone doing their part.

Understanding the "whys" may appear pointless, yet it is crucial. So, think about the lives you may be saving, such as cancer patients particularly susceptible to COVID-19, thanks to your sacrifice.

Third, shift your focus to hopeful outcomes.

If you don't get out often, it's only natural that you start fantasising about all the great things you're missing out on. However, the coronavirus pandemic doesn't only affect you; it affects everyone, everywhere. The lives of everyone have been affected.

If you're feeling limited, it can help shift your attention to what you have rather than what you don't.

One might reason, "Well, I can't go to a movie theatre quite yet, but I can still enjoy a movie night here with my family." Another way of putting this is, "I can't go jogging with all my running mates at the park right now, but I can still take a walk in the neighbourhood with my dog."

The reason is that you can choose between several different outcomes. You may need to adopt a slightly atypical viewpoint and some adaptability to spot them.

Do not dismiss the power of a routine.

Many of us have thrown routines out the window, but some regularity never hurt. Feeling more secure and life's uncertainties lessened is a nice side effect.

Establish a daily routine, even if it's as simple as the same time of day to wake up and the same outfit to wear. It's okay to lounge around in your jammies every once in a while, but if you find that your entire closet is divided into "daytime" and "nighttime" pyjamas, you might want to rethink your style.

If you need a mood boost, try driving or walking in a new direction once a week or riding your bike around a new neighbourhood. Simply leaving the house once a day to get the mail can be enough to make you feel more accessible.

Improve your current self-care routine.

Because of being social creatures, humans need to take care of ourselves. Getting enough rest, keeping active, and maintaining a nutritious diet are all excellent places to start. Self-care might involve mundane tasks.

One example is taking a long, relaxing bubble bath with soothing music and candles. Alternatively, you may start a vegetable garden or take up cycling. If you've ever fantasised about becoming a master chef, knitter, or mediator, now's your chance! Plenty of resources are available online for free if you want to learn something new.

Trying something new, even if you're on your own, can help you appreciate the time you have more. You can start making moves toward realising your biggest aspirations right now.

Be aware of warning signs.

One's constraints are a fact of life. So, keep an eye out for when you're approaching yours, and do what you need to do to get healthy again. This may involve calling a friend to share one's frustrations with them. To some, it may be as simple as taking a stroll around the block. Those in the recovery community may need to contact their sponsor.

Don't be hard on yourself if you find yourself in need of relief. We've all grown weary of being on our own and need to connect with others. Also, you shouldn't feel bad about reaching out for help.

Patients interested in seeing a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker are always welcome to make that request. Many professionals now provide online consultations. When patients need spiritual guidance, they can talk to one of our chaplains or sign up for one of our online support groups.

Keep in mind that this world is not permanent.

Despite how challenging things may seem, nothing lasts forever. Everything only exists temporarily. The crisis will pass, but things won't return to "normal" relatively soon.