How to Handle Coronavirus Isolation and Anxiety

The coronavirus outbreak may have you feeling lonely, isolated, stressed, and anxious. Whether you’re social distancing or required to stay home, these tips may help you feel better.
                                                  

Be social.
Socialization is key, especially if you feel isolated. Feeling connected to others wards off loneliness and stress.

First, swap the term “social distancing” for “physical distancing.” Remind yourself that we’re all still connected, even if we’re apart.

Next, consider it “distant socializing.”

You can still get together with friends and family online or on your phone. There are apps that make face-to-face conversations easy. Send emails and texts. Get in touch on social media. Pick up the phone and say hi.

Look online for religious services and cultural events. Many organizations are offering digital gatherings.

Share your feelings with others. Conversation helps you feel less alone and more supported.

Spend quality time with family.
With kids home from school and college and partners working from home, it’s a unique chance for quality family time.

Do those activities you don’t always have time for. Play board games. Do puzzles. Bake together. Have deep, relaxed conversations while you have the opportunity.

Take a break from news.
The 24-hour news cycle can make anxiety spike. Give yourself a limit. Stick with what you need to know and what’s happening in your community.

Try limiting your news intake to 30-60 minutes or 1-2 updates a day. That should be enough to be informed.

Stick with 1-2 reliable news sources. Quickly scroll past triggering headlines and photos. Read only what’s relevant to you.


If you have trouble detaching, ask a friend to filter what’s out there and give you only the updates you need.

Change your mindset.
Avoid thinking too much about the future or worst-case scenarios. Forecasting can trigger anxiety. Instead of saying, “I’ll never recover,” tell yourself, “I’ll make it through this.”

Try mindfulness. Watch videos on guided meditation and yoga. There are plenty of downloadable apps you can use.

Practice gratitude. Studies suggest finding something to be grateful for every day improves mood. So jot something down. Maybe it’s first responders and service workers who keep us safe. Maybe it’s family, friends, and the roof over your head.