I make a terrible patient! I’m down for the count, making me pause and think about my life. You see, I pulled the muscles in my right hip and can’t walk very well, it’s been over a week. My injury is not an interesting story. However, I do have plenty of time to think about life and current events. Therefore, reassessment of my life is taking place.

Thinking Can Be Dangerous!

However, on the other hand, a mind is a terrible thing to waste. I think there was a commercial on TV about that years ago. Anyway, life can surprise one at times. For instance, this global quarantine has disconnected people from the ‘rat race’ and from each other. Thinking about the effects of quarantine on one’s health is an interesting topic.

This quarantine is impacting three important areas of mental health: emotional well-being, psychological well-being and social well-being. Therefore, quarantine has left many people confined to their homes leading to unforeseen risks.

Do you know, according to one research paper, that extended quarantine causes some serious health issues?

Reading one summary paper on quarantine in The Lancet, it’s reported that Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), confusion and anger are some of the psychological results.

Effects of Long-term Quarantine

Certainly, there are other stressors to take note of. The list is long, but I’ll focus on just a few key topics.

1. Prolonged isolation can lead to depression and substance abuse
2. Most importantly, financial loss
3. In addition, fear of becoming infected and loss of health is a big one
4. Included is the fear of not having enough supplies – food and money for example
5. Next, is boredom and frustration with the interruptions in our daily lives, feeling stuck
6. PTSD is reported four times higher in children in prolonged quarantine

Above All

You do have resources to rely on to help you through an extended quarantine. Here are a few suggestions to assist you:

First, stay active as much as possible. For instance, now is a good time to tackle some of those projects you’ve been putting off. Why not reorganize your closet? Clean the garage, throw out broken toys, clear out the clutter, just to name a few activities you can do. Make that list! Check the chores off! You’ll have a sense of accomplishment!

Exercise as much as possible. Any type of movement is good. Put on your favorite music and dance! Take a walk in your neighborhood! Moreover, you may actually meet some of your neighbors if they are outside.

A few months ago, I closed out all my social media accounts. Moreover, I’m happier since I did. I’m not exposed to the negative talk, anger and fears. In addition, my family is actually communicating more with each other.

More ideas

• Eat your meals together as a family! If you’re single, use the good dishes! Play background music. Treat yourself as that special person you are.
• Talk with friends and family on the phone, zoom, FaceTime. Write a letter to someone special, the old fashion way, by hand and mail it.
• Check in with family members who are at risk for depression more often.
• Read a light-hearted book or watch a funny movie – remember to laugh!
• Work on a hobby – if you don’t have one, now is a good time to explore your interest.

Summary

The year 2020 is rapidly coming to an end. Plan ahead for 2021. Most importantly, current circumstances are not going to change in the next week or so. In other words, plan ahead on how your family with navigate the upcoming holidays. Therefore, traditions are evolving and transforming to reflect the times.

I know it seems like this quarantine will never end. However, this too shall pass. Nothing stays the same. Life is forever changing. Above all, remember, change is not bad. We are adapting to current times.