![]() While social distancing refers to avoiding large gatherings of people, staying a certain distance from others in public, and only going out of the house for essentials, it can still start to feel a lot like "cabin fever." You might also feel stigmatized if you are isolated because you've contracted the virus or you suspect you may have contracted the virus. These factors could increase your chances of developing a mental health issue, like anxiety or depression. ![]() It's normal to feel stress when faced with staying indoors and interacting less with people, especially when that is added to the underlying stress of worrying whether you will catch the virus. For this reason, it's important to take care of your mental health during times of decreased social interactions. Loneliness and Social IsolationĪ 2017 systematic review of 40 studies from 1950 to 2016 published in the journal Public Health found a significant association between social isolation and loneliness and poorer mental health outcomes as well as all-cause mortality. ![]() To have all of that stop suddenly is jarring, to say the least. While those with chronic illness may already be familiar with what it's like to face long periods of time alone at home, most of us are used to getting out daily even those who are retired or don't work usually make trips to run errands or visit friends. Whether you are quarantined due to suspected exposure, staying home because you are in a high-risk category, or at home to help prevent the spread of infection, you may find yourself unprepared for the feelings of loneliness that will likely follow. Are you unsure how to cope with loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic? You could be self-isolating because you've caught the infection, but there are many other reasons why you've elected to stay indoors. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |