Just when it seemed life was returning to normal, the second wave of COVID-19 struck the nation and diminished all hopes of normalcy. The overwhelming rise in cases and deaths has caused much distress and frustration among us all. People are back within the confines of their homes, trying to keep themselves safe from the infection. During these uncertain times, our mental health has been compromised once again. However, for those who may have already been exposed to the virus and are in self-quarantine, or isolation, the anxiety and frustration have doubled.
Let’s say, you’ve been asked by your doctors to self-quarantine because you’re reasonably concerned that you’ve been exposed to the virus. You need to immediately pick a room to isolate yourself from other family members or flatmates. Nobody is allowed to enter this space during the period of self-quarantine.
Once isolated, chances are you might start feeling anxious about your health and that of your loved ones. You may even feel helpless as you have no control over the situation, which can lead to more anxiety and frustration. You may find yourself unable to sleep well, focus, manage your emotions, or even process information.
With the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc, it is important to take adequate safety measures to protect yourself and others. However, if you may have already been exposed to the infection and asked to self-quarantine, here are a few coping mechanisms if you are wondering how to deal with anxiety and frustration.
Establish a quarantine routine
Your regular routine is bound to get disrupted during self-quarantine. This may leave you aimless and struggling to figure out how to spend each day. In such a situation, you can plan out simple activities that you can do without venturing out. In addition to getting ample rest, waking up at a fixed time, and eating healthy, incorporate some recreation and relaxation time as well. You can meditate, maintain a journal, paint, read a book or watch a movie to keep your mind occupied. Productivity expert Tanya Dalton says, “Routines can help you gain a sense of ownership of your time.” A structure will give you a sense of order and control and help keep anxiety and frustration at bay.
Stay positive
It can be hard to maintain a positive outlook when in self-quarantine. Your mind may constantly worry about things that are beyond your control. These negative thoughts can contribute to stress, anxiety, and frustration. Instead, you can incorporate positive affirmations to help change your perspective. For example, you can say to yourself, “I will not stress over things I can’t control,” or “I believe in my ability to get through these tough times.” Affirmations can make you feel positive and optimistic about your situation.
Creating a structured routine during self-quarantine helps maintain a sense of order and control, reducing anxiety and frustration.
Positive affirmations, such as reminding oneself of their ability to get through tough times, can help shift perspective and cultivate a more positive outlook.
Music can powerfully impact emotions and serve as a refuge during self-quarantine. Upbeat music can boost optimism and ease anxiety and frustration.
Setting limits on news consumption helps manage stress levels and maintain a healthier mental state during self-quarantine.
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