COVID-19 (how to survive the quarantine)

WHY THE QUARANTINE IS SO HARD ON PEOPLE:

1. Complete lack of control over the situation: When people don't have control over a situation, they feel dis empowered and helpless. Currently nobody really have any idea when the pandemic will be over, which makes people anxious.
2. Limited opportunities for socialization: It is one of the main reasons why the quarantine feels so stressful. By not being able to socialize, people feel isolated and often lonely.
3. People have to sacrifice things that are important to them: For instance, going to restaurants, festivals, concerts, parties or vacations.
4. Financial instability: A lot of people have lost their jobs, or are just not getting their salaries, which has made things difficult for many and especially for those who can't even afford regular necessities anymore. 
5. Stuck with toxic/abusive relationships: During the crisis, multiple number of domestic violence cases have been registered. And for many with abusive or toxic relationships in their own houses, it has become difficult to the point that their own homes have become hell to them.
6. Anger: Being all time at home a lot of people especially with anger issues have begun blaming and lashing out on others, which also leads to conflicts with their family members on a regular basis.
7. Lack of attention/connection with people: Without any socialization, people tend to develop a sense of lack of attention within themselves that often frustrates them, especially those with narcissistic tendencies. This is also a reason why people have been posting more on social media these days.
8. Hypochondriasis i.e health anxiety: Due to this type of anxiety, several people often tend to worry way too much and are very fearful with the slightest symptoms of the virus, like, coughing, fever, etc. This can also be because of the lack of doctors in the given time.
9. Social Anxiety Disorder: The quarantine has been the hardest on people with SAD. People with this disorder must be exposed to some sort of social settings in general, so that they get to face their anxiety. No socialization leads to loneliness which would only worsen the symptoms of the disorder.
10. Depression: Unfortunately, many people have gotten into depression because of the pandemic. And, for those who already have depression, their symptoms might have been worsened as these people do not have any reason to kick start their lives and actually do something. Due to the lack motivation, such people mostly tend to sleep a lot.

 

WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT:

1. Keep a normal routine: It is important that we continue to have normal routines in order to survive through the quarantine. Do everything that you would do on any normal working day.     
2. Get dressed: Getting dressed up everyday can actually keep you motivated. You do not have to be in night suits all day long.
3. Move!: You might feel lazy and it might be hard for you to be productive. But its important for you to know that moving around will make you feel less stressful and keep you motivated. You do not have to be on your couch watching Netflix all day!
4. Don't make schedules (optional): In order to become more productive, we often make schedules for the next day. Also, when we fail to accomplish all the tasks, it makes us anxious. So don't make any schedules, instead keep doing your things in an order. You don't even need to have a planner to work from home.
5. Try learning something new: It can be a great time for you to learn/practice something new or anything that you already like. For example, cooking, painting, writing, learning languages, etc.
6. Sleep schedule: It's important to have a good sleeping schedule. At least 8 hours of sleep is recommended. During such tough times, lack of sleep, or a rough sleeping schedule can boost anxiety.
7. Don't watch a lot of news: The media usually focuses more on the bad news. For a good mental health, its important to avoid watching a lot of news that might make you worry more.
8. Connect with others: You can always video conference your family members and friends, and continue to keep checking in with your loved ones.
9. Stop complaining: Know that we are all in the together. A whole lot of people are going through the same as you. Normal days will be back in no time!

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