Looking after your health and wellbeing in self-isolation

‘Self-isolation’ is a phrase we are seeing a lot of in 2020 with the outbreak of Covid-19. The thought of self-isolating for 14 days may seem pretty daunting and aggravating, but it protects the health of you and your loved ones, as well as the health of others around you!

14 days in quarantine is by no means a holiday, it’s completely isolating yourself from groups, clubs and public places including supermarkets, theatres and restaurants. For those who suffer from mental health issues, self-isolation can have a further impact on the mind. We wanted to share a few things you can do to keep moving and occupy your mind if you’re self-isolating.

Eat well

Don’t use self-isolation as an excuse to order a bunch of takeaways and stockpile snacks you wouldn’t normally eat. Try to stick to your normal routine and diet as best as you can.

Order your food online for home delivery

You might not be able to get everything you’ve ordered, but a home delivery will keep you and others safe and will prevent you from panic-buying.

Ask a friend to bring food round

Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends, it’s amazing how communities get together in a crisis.

Keep drinking water

A change in daily routine may limit your fluid intake, if you’re worried about not drinking enough water, set an alarm to remind you or download an app.

Limit your caffeine

As tempting as it is to stick the kettle on every half an hour when you’re at home, try to cut down on tea and coffee. Caffeine might give you a burst of energy but it can make you feel anxious and disturb your sleep at night.

Keep active

Even though you can’t go to the gym, swimming pool or exercise class, you can still keep moving at home. Exercise releases endorphins and serotonin that helps improve your mood! Here are a few ways you can keep moving:

• Clear a space and dance to music
• Walk up and down the stairs
• Walk around the block (just don’t stop to talk to a neighbour)
• Follow an online workout

Entertainment

If you’re stuck inside with the kids, they might be getting pretty restless, but there are plenty of things you can do in the house to keep everyone entertained.

Get creative

Dig out the box of arts and crafts and use a nice big table or cover a floor space and do some painting. Write a story about your experience in self-isolation or do some painting and drawing.

Dig out a board game

Board games provide hours of fun for the whole family! It’s surprising how much time you can kill playing a game, especially Monopoly!

Movie marathon

Set up a cinema at home, fetch some blankets, stick on your favourite film and get cosy with the family.

Support

Up to date information and advice is available for you to access on NHS and gov.uk webpages:

www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response

24/7 Health and Wellbeing Services

We understand the coronavirus is causing anxiety among you and your loved ones. We recognise the potential mental and physical impact on your personal plans, career and family during this uncertain time. We are committed to delivering health and wellbeing support 24 hours a day. Our complimentary services include medical advice, everyday support and telephone counselling.