5 useful tips for dealing with loneliness in quarantine
This is a very delicate moment in our life. For us who have not experienced - and I dare to say fortunately - war, it is perhaps the greatest challenge ever faced nationally, if not globally. In our own small way, we have a duty to assume our responsibilities, staying at home and complying with the hygiene and health regulations imposed by the World Health Organization. Of course, it seems easy, we are called to save the country sitting comfortably on the sofa while enjoying a TV series marathon, but, in the long run, even those that were our favorite home activities risk getting bored.
Perhaps we are not all fully aware of it, but these restrictive measures have a more or less severe impact on our psyche, especially for those who find themselves in quarantine in complete solitude. Students or off-site workers, elderly people, single people, separated people, with long-distance relationships. In short, the spectrum of individuals who, for one reason or another, are experiencing total isolation, is very varied and, for them, quarantine can be even more frustrating on a mental level. As the WHO points out, "it is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared and angry", therefore, do not be afraid of your feelings, learn to ask yourself "how are you?" and listening to the answer, you may even discover sides of yourself that you did not know and come out of this experience changed for the better. To learn to live with - and, not necessarily, fight - with loneliness, we at alfemminile provide you with a series of useful tips, feel free to follow them!
1. Have a positive attitude
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude towards the problem." Thus said Jack Sparrow in the film "Pirates of the Caribbean". As trivial as it may seem, this is precisely the first step to take to be able to overcome the loneliness and anxiety that derives from it. Basking in despair or, worse still, in self-pity is certainly not useful. Changing the perspective from which you look at things, however, can make a difference. Only in this way will you be able to realize that being alone is not necessarily negative: you have more time to dedicate to yourself, getting to know yourself more deeply. To help you with this, you could even start keeping a diary in which to write down all your feelings, whether positive or negative, thoughts as well as fears, what you would like to change once back to normal, the goals to be pursued and priorities. to be reviewed. In short, take the opportunity to take stock of the situation on your life.
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2. Break the silence
The noise of the train when it arrives at the station, the confused chatter of traveling companions, the voice of the bartender asking you “the usual?”, The sound of the keys on your colleagues' computers, the shrill voice of mom when she scolds you. You didn't think it could ever happen, but you are missing even those sounds, or rather, noises that almost bothered you in everyday life. Absolute silence within the walls of the house can be an insidious enemy, find a way to fight it. Play your favorite music playlist at full volume, turn on the TV to keep you company while you cook, listen to podcasts before falling asleep. Surround yourself with voices that make you feel a little less alone.
3. Exercise
Although the temptation is to spend hours lounging on the sofa under a fleece blanket, make an effort to reconsider the physical activity option. In fact, sport can have various beneficial effects and not only on your body. Sure, not like a good plate of pasta, but we're almost there. When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins, a hormone with antidepressant powers, reducing stress and instantly making you feel calmer and more relaxed. You will see that, after a workout, you will have the energy you need to face your day. Furthermore, not only your self-esteem will benefit, but also the quality of sleep. Playing sports on a regular basis can help you fall asleep faster, without risking sleepless nights filled with thoughts and worries. Without considering that, in this way, you can enjoy that "coveted dish of pasta without guilt. Have we convinced you / now?
4. Maintain sociability (virtually)
We have the immense fortune of living in the digital age, let's take the opportunity to keep in touch at least virtually. Video call the distant family at mealtimes, organize an online aperitif with your colleagues, call your loved ones daily to let yourself be "embraced" by the sound of a friendly voice. Keep social with the tools you have at your disposal, they will help you feel less isolated. And why not take the opportunity to pick up a pen and paper and try to write a letter, perhaps to your distant partner? It can be an original and romantic solution to keep the relationship alive!
