Staying at home during the Coronavirus outbreak isolation period puts many of us into an unusual and unfamiliar situation. Some are working from home – with or without children self-learning, others are trying to fulfil their time with home-based activities and trying to keep their mind occupied, despite many NHS workers helping those who are ill and vulnerable. Teachers are supporting the children of those key workers who are out keeping us safe,and assisting those in need.

Whatever your situation, know that you are not alone. Not being able to go outside as often as we’re used to can have more of an effect than we realise. Luckily there are many ways that can support you to stay on track and help you to adapt to this new way of life.

Here are a few ideas we’ve put together:

Plan your Day

Keeping structure and routine to day will help you keep focus and achieve the goals you set yourself – however small they are. Keeping some “normality” to the situation will also help – such as getting dressed for work, planning your work tasks and scheduling a lunch break.

Maintaining Good Online Relationships

Whether you live alone or just want to be able to keep in contact with colleagues and friends, keeping in contact with others you trust is important for your mental well-being. There are many workplace and social platforms you can do this from, such as Microsoft Teams, ZOOM, WhatsApp and messaging apps. The conversation type can also vary, whether it’s just a quick text to a friend every now and then or a scheduled team catch-up with your colleagues via ZOOM, making time for human interaction is important when social contact feels restricted.

Looking After the Physical You

Although venturing outside more than once a day is against the current Government guidelines, keeping fit and getting fresh air should be a priority factored into your day. Perhaps going out for a run in the early hours of the morning isn’t your passion but there are numerous other things you can do to keep yourself fit and healthy. Maybe it’s just going for a walk in your lunch-break, doing a workout in your living room or even a spot of gardening in the evening, whatever the activity, ensure it’s one that offers you self care. Remember to drink plenty of water and why not involve the family in planning healthy, well-balanced meals.

Be News Aware

However tempting during the outbreak, try staying away from the news for a bit. It’s good to keep updated but sometimes it can be quite daunting and too much can be overwhelming. Using reputable websites for updates and guidance such as Gov.uk and NHS.co.uk ensures the information you are reading is trustworthy.

End the Working Day

When working from home it’s a good idea to set a finish time and make sure work isn’t with you after the finish time. Don’t keep checking whether you need to do this or that, leave it for the next day. If you find it difficult to switch out of work mode, why not try a new hobby like learning a new language, or have a games hour with the family.

Relax and Sleep

Good quality sleep makes a huge difference to how we feel and has an impact on productivity, so try to maintain a good quality sleep pattern.

Whilst we can acknowledge that the current situation is very worrying and upsetting for all, try and incorporate some happiness into your day, do something – however small – that you enjoy.

The NHS have some more useful tips here.