All by myself

HOW TO DEAL WITH LONELINESS

TIPS ON HOW TO GET THROUGH THIS CHALLENGING TIME -  MP EDITION 032

As we all continue to practice social distancing, self-quarantine can start to feel lonely real quick. Whether you live alone or are just missing the social interaction that comes with being around friends and family, loneliness can take its toll on your physical and mental well-being.

Loneliness can lead to some unhealthy coping mechanisms such as stress eating or drinking, and social isolation can increase anxiety, lead to insomnia, and make pre-existing conditions worse. 

Feeling lonely is something that can sneak up on you and catch you off guard. So to help you manage self-quarantine, we’ve compiled some suggestions on how to deal with loneliness during this difficult time.

Set a schedule

Getting ready and going into an office inherently creates some structure to your day but working from home can throw all of that off. In a time when a lot of things seem out of your control, it can be comforting to be able to control your day. Set a schedule in the morning for your day and try to stick to it. Remember to schedule time in your day for breaks to stretch, eat, and take breaks.

Talk to friends and family 

When we’re not able to see friends, family, or co-workers, the next best thing is to get on a video call and talk to them. We’re in the golden age of video conferencing tools, complete with Snapchat filters and customizable backgrounds. It’s easy to text a friend or family member to check in on them, but it feels very different to speak to them screen to screen, strengthening the much-needed connection at this time. Whether you use FaceTime, Zoom, House Party, or some other app, try to keep in touch with loved ones as frequently as possible. 

Play something on in the background

Spending a lot more time at home when you live alone means there will be periods of silence. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea - it can be challenging to be alone with your thoughts especially during this challenging time. To help fill the silence, you could have your TV on low as some background noise to keep you company, but it’s not for everyone as there’s a risk of getting distracted. If that’s the case for you, try listening to music while you work. 

1. Get moving 

Moving helps unlock brain function so it’s important to try to get moving at least once a day. Try these workouts that you can follow along to at home or even go out for a walk, practicing proper social distancing of course. It can help to see other people, even if it’s from afar.

Limit your media intake

News is an important source of information right now, especially with things changing every day but while living alone, the deluge of COVID-19 content and often not-so-great news can be overwhelming, and potentially unbearable. If you find yourself getting anxious with every news article you read, try a mini digital detox and limit yourself to getting updates once a day. 

Read or watch something instead 

Books and movies have always been a way to escape. Escape for a few hours into a thrilling book or a riveting TV series to distract from loneliness.

Use an app 

The benefit of technology these days means that you have many mental health apps at your disposal if you need them. Try meditation to calm anxiety and stress, and get more comfortable with solitude. Give the Headspace app a try or Talkspace app, which enables you to have a virtual therapy session if you need it. 

1. Embrace social 

Social media definitely can lead to an ugly part of the internet but it can also foster a feeling of community that you can achieve from the comfort of your own home. Engage with people on social media, cultivate a community of people who like the same things you do, and find a new way to connect in this weird, uncertain time.

Practice self-care

These days, it’s more important than ever that you make time to do what makes you feel good. There’s no shame in the self-care game. We have to protect our mental health and listen to our bodies. Do not worry that you’re not operating at 100%. Keep in mind that this is not normal and that time dedicated to self-care to recharge yourself is crucial.

Keep your hands busy

It can help take your mind off loneliness to keep your hands busy. Try an activity that is repetitive because there’s something super soothing about it. Unlock your creative side with hobbies such as knitting, painting, or puzzles - there’s a reason why puzzles are flying off the shelves lately.

Stay home, stay safe, stay strong.

Muff love