Nadia Buckus
Certified counsellor and life coach
Since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Covid-19 outbreak a global pandemic, many of us, even those who have not been infected by the virus, will choose to quarantine ourselves in our homes for the upcoming weeks.
Cancelled weddings and travel plans, indefinite isolation, panic over scarce resources and information overload could be a recipe for unchecked anxiety and feelings of isolation.
Here are a few tips that could help you survive negative thoughts about these uncertain times we are all experiencing.
1. Stay close to your normal routine
For those 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 and go to bed around the same time, eat meals, shower, adapt your exercise regimen, and get out of your PJs.
2. Avoid obsessing over endless coronavirus coverage
Instead of spending hours researching on the Net about the virus and numbers of people infected, rather stick to watching the news on television or listening to news updates on the radio.
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3. A clean home equals a clean mind
Try not to eat in bed or work on the couch in your pyjamas. Eat at the kitchen table and work at your dining table. Additionally, a cluttered home can cause you to become uneasy and claustrophobic of your environment, so keep it tidy.
4. Re-frame: I am not stuck inside, I can finally focus on myself and my home
Doing one productive thing a day can lead to a more positive attitude. Set your sights on long-avoided tasks, re-organise, or create something you’ve always wanted to. Approaching this time with a mindset of feeling trapped or stuck will only stress you out more. This is your chance to slow down and focus on yourself.
Finding peace in the fact that you are doing your part to “flatten the curve” will certainly build mental strength to combat the stressful situation the whole globe is experiencing.
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