Whether you’re introverted or extroverted, long bouts of isolation can lead to loneliness. The simple fact is, even when we don’t need a lot of human interaction, we are wired to crave being around people. Right now, in the midst of self-quarantines, and businesses and schools closing due to the coronavirus, people of all ages, races, and socioeconomic status are stuck at home, feeling lonely. If you can relate, hopefully this post will help because below I’m sharing 5 ideas for staving off loneliness while in isolation.
Reach Out to Friends and Family
Pick a friend or family member – someone you care about; someone you trust and feel comfortable with. Give them a call. Better yet, do a video chat with them. While you might not be able to physically be with them, hearing and/or seeing them and sharing warm thoughts with each other can sometimes be just enough to feel the connection you are craving.
Start Moving Your Body
Physical activity has been a well-known and well documented form of relief from mental health issues for quite some time- and loneliness is no different. Next time you are feeling lonely and can’t pull yourself out of your rut, get up and get moving. Exercise produces “feel good” hormones (endorphins), improves self-esteem, and gives you a great distraction from your lonely and negative feelings.
For best results, do something active outside. Odds are you’ll see other people, and even though you have to keep 6 feet away during social distancing, seeing other people can help you feel less alone. And, a healthy dose of vitamin D can help you stave off feelings of depression.
Adopt/Foster a Pet
If you’re financially capable of caring for an animal, adopting/fostering a dog, cat, or another small animal can be therapeutic and reduce your sporadic or even constant feelings of loneliness.
According to the American Psychological Association, having an animal to care for and serve as a companion is linked to reduced feelings of loneliness as well as physiological changes like lower blood pressure and heart rate.
There are lots of animals that are in need of care with your local shelters. Call and ask yours about fostering/adopting.
Join an Online Support Group
Whether it’s on Facebook, LinkedIn, or one you put together on Zoom – joining/forming an online support group is a great way to remember we’re all in this together right now. By interacting with others, you can expose yourself to people that are struggling with the same issues as you, discuss coping strategies with your peers, and build relationships with other members of the group.
Avoid Comparison – Put Away Your Phone
I know, we’re all on our phones right now. But, seeing pictures of families together can amplify your feelings of loneliness. Take some time away from the various social media platforms to avoid comparison. Watch a funny movie, write in your journal, start a hobby, or read a book.
Without realizing it, our phones add quite a bit of stress and pressure to our lives. Besides, you are unable to reflect upon your own mental health and your thoughts if your eyes are glued to your phone. Next time you find yourself checking your phone too much, set it in another room for a period of time where you can focus on something else other than what others are up to.
We will get through this!
I know things are hard and uncertain right now, but we will get through this. As a bonus tip, see if there is a way to help your community, even from home. Sometimes, doing good for others is all we need to feel re-connected to the world. Stay safe, and take care of yourselves.