Due to the sudden nationwide lockdown to slow down the spread of the deadly Coronavirus, I could not go back to my hometown. This is a similar situation that many of us currently find ourselves in.

Due to my work responsibilities, I live away from my home, but because of current circumstances it has become important to practice social distancing and stay inside for long periods of time without coming into contact with other people, both friends and family.

For those who are doing it all on their own, these feelings of loneliness and vulnerability can be incredibly difficult to deal with.

But just because this is how the world currently is, you don’t need to feel uncomfortable, uneasy or on your own at all.

We’re here to showcase some amazing tips that can help tackle loneliness and spend this difficult time in the best ways possible.

I’ve tried all of the tips mentioned below and they have helped me out a great deal during the toughest times.

Let’s take a look!

1. Share Your Feelings

In order to combat loneliness during this pandemic, sharing your feelings and emotions with the people that matter most to you will do you the world of good.

Though you cannot meet anyone physically, staying in touch with them virtually will definitely help to improve your mood. Have a video call or exchange some text messages to overcome the uneasy feeling of being alone.

Staying in touch with your friends and family members will make you feel more connected. Not only will it reduce loneliness, but it can also make you realize the importance of your existence in the lives of others.

2. Don’t Be To Hard on Yourself

When you have nothing to do, it is quite likely that negative thoughts can start to creep into your way of thinking and you begin to focus on the critical elements rather than the positive.

These feelings of loneliness and isolation might cause you to doubt your own self-worth which in turn makes it a more difficult time to be alone.

Now, more than ever before, effectively dealing with dark thoughts is critical if you want to get through these months with your mental health intact. On that account, treat yourself the way you would others. Value your own interests, priorities, and achievements.

Never forget that you are worthy of the same love that you give to everyone else!

3. Workout Regularly

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, exercising reduces stress and anxiety while supporting better sleeping patterns, something which also plays a key role in coping with loneliness.

Gyms are currently shut down throughout the country but there are many good alternatives including home workouts! The internet is full of thousands of home workout tips for all experience levels that can be followed easily everyday to help ease your mind and stay energized.

Take out at least 60 minutes of your day to exercise in any corner of your house and stay fit. It is also a great chance for those who are willing to lose a few extra pounds or just generally feel better about yourself.

With almost no contact from the outside world, it should be easier to follow a healthy diet and stick to some fitness regime. Speaking of which…

4. Good Food, Good Mood

If you are living alone, you are ultimately accountable for your own health. No one else will put the work in for you.

Getting too comfortable settling for unhealthy junk and sugary foods will put you in a bad mood and obviously affect your physical and mental health in too many ways to count. In contrast, eating a wholesome diet enriched with vegetables and fruits will make you feel better, calmer, and healthier, obviously.

Since you are battling dark moods when alone in this global crisis, it’s important to stick to a healthy diet and note just how it uplifts your mood and energy levels.

Some other nutritious food items like fresh juices, honey and lime water, nuts, dry fruits, plain yogurt and oats should also be a part of your regular healthy diet to curb any cravings you might be getting.

5. Try New Things

Always follow what your heart says. Indulge in things that make you happy and satisfied.

It could be any of your hobbies or you can try your hands at something you have always wanted to do but never had the chance or time to start.

Well, since now you have plenty of time, explore your creativity. You can easily try new things such as cooking, gardening, painting, dancing, or anything that peaks your interest.

It’s a much better idea to pass the time doing something interesting as opposed to just sitting idle.

6. Get Some Fresh Air

Eventually, remaining inside all day, every day can lead to increased feelings of irritation.

If you are living alone, this is likely to only heighten any lingering feelings of loneliness.

However, we cannot go outside and staying in is probably the best way to reduce the fast-spreading nature of this fatal virus, but a little change can help you to keep loneliness at bay and enjoy the time alone at home.

Here’s what you need to do to freshen up your mind and soul.

• Open the curtains and let the light come in
• Open the windows throughout the day to ensure a good supply of fresh air indoors
• Sit on the balcony or an outdoor area of the house whereby you can get fresh air and observe the world
• You can also go on the rooftop and take a walk to refresh yourself

7. Do What You Love The Most

To promote a healthy relationship with yourself and to feel more confident, regular self-care sessions are important!

You can watch your favourite tv series or movie, follow some DIY cookery recipes, indulge in skincare, refine your makeup skills, try meditation, the list goes on and on as far as your imagination is willing.

The lockdown has given us an astonishing opportunity to improve

our physical and mental health. Since you are living alone there are no chances of distractions to get in the way.

8. Regularly check on your health

When you don’t have anyone to keep an eye on your health, it’s essential to take a greater responsibility yourself.

In this scary time, you have to be more cautious in order to stay protected and safe from getting sick. Given below are some important things that you need to take care of.

Store some basic medicines for headaches, colds, coughs, and mild fevers after prescription

Keep the nearest hospital or clinic number handy

Acquire a thermometer so that you don’t need to rush at the last moment

Make a list of your emergency contacts that live nearby. It could be a neighbour, friend, relative or anyone you trust

9. Stay in Touch With Your Neighbours

Make sure you are in touch with your neighbours regularly who may be able to offer help for any personal needs if required. This should be a priority for you if living away from your family, regardless of the situation.

Do not hesitate to check in with them and encourage them to do the same for you. You might be surprised to see that you form closer bonds with your neighbours that can last for a long time, even continuing on once all this has passed.

It is important to have good relations with people who live nearby regardless of the situation.

Final Thoughts

Many people are going through feelings of loss and isolation in these difficult circumstances, whether they are living by themselves or not.

Nevertheless, adopting these tips discussed above will definitely give you a huge relief and provide the strength you need to stay strong and cope with this challenging time on your own.

Above all, this is a temporary situation, it will all be better soon if we remain home, eat healthy food, and stay safe.