The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way that we operate. For many persons, remaining at home is not as easy as it may seem. Being in isolation and disconnected from family and friends can be difficult. In order to cope with the anxiety and stress associated with the pandemic, it is important to keep calm and think positive.

When you are in isolation, it is recommended that you set a schedule to moor you and your family to a comforting routine.

Start each day by getting up, take a shower, wash your hair, get dressed and do all that stuff that you would normally do to maintain some daily consistency. Even if you must remain at home, you should go outside to take a walk. It is important to do that and not stay locked up in your house; not doing anything and not moving can be bad for your health and can create more anxiety.

While you maintain physical distance, use technology, such as Face-Time, Skype, WhatsApp, or a simple phone call to maintain important social connections with friends and family. Be sure to check in regularly with older family members or friends, especially those who live alone. Social interaction is key to our lives and it is a main coping skill for many people, especially people with mental health or substance abuse issues.

Encourage each other to be positive and always keep a happy mood.

Also, it is important that you take care of yourself. Keep yourself healthy mentally and physically as much as you can. See if you can carve that into your day, even if it’s 10 minutes where you can do something just for yourself. Spend some time by yourself by listening to music, doing yoga or other exercise, or talking on the phone with a friend. Just do something that makes you feel good and of course, you can share it with your family and friends.

Finally, you need to eat well. Maintaining good nutrition has a big impact on how you feel, which will help your mental health. Ensure that you eat on time and that you consume enough fruits and vegetables. Avoid unhealthy foods and remember to stay hydrated.