It is easy to give up, lose hope, get depressed when you are isolated from friends and family but this is the time when you must stay strong.
It is important, now more than ever, to stay in contact with those you love, whether it is family, friends, neighbours, we all need human interaction. It is a basic need, one where we make connections to another being.
If you feel closed off from the world and are tired of tv, open the windows, stand on your front porch or your balcony and get some fresh air. It will do you good. Arrange to have roadside chats with your neighbours, perhaps you sitting in your driveway and they in theirs, or you on your balcony and they on theirs.
Use technology to your advantage and video message with people. There are many people who do not have this ability but you can still call and talk to them. Check in and see how they are coping. None of us are alone in this.
Music is always a quick pick me up. Play some of your favourite dancing music and dance. Dance with the kids, your partner, yourself. I had my own little dance party while I was cleaning windows, something I don’t like doing, but I get through it much easier when I’m working to a good old 70s song.
Not being able to see a loved one can be hard, especially when they are in senior homes. Many have gone and had calls while standing outside a window but others cannot do that and the parents always do not understand what is going on, be there for them even if it is just to listen.
Remember, this too will pass and if we all take the right precautions we will all come out the other end. Don’t give up, don’t lose hope. If you feel this happening, think of all those people out there who must face this every day so that we can have food, safety, medicine, etc. The doctors and nurses, the pharmacists, the grocery store clerks, the custodians who clean, the people who deliver the food and restock the shelves, the paramedics, etc. They are under a great deal of stress, so perhaps remember them when you are feeling down because you are at home. Many of them would give anything to trade places with you. Even if just for a few days to rest.
Don’t give up. Don’t lose hope. This will end. Stay strong.