How to Stay Sane when Self-Quarantining for COVID-19

Coronavirus (COVID-19) infections have been reported in all 50 U.S. states. Due to its highly contagious and infectious nature, and the unique ways it differs from other common viruses such the common cold and influenza, the general population is highly susceptible to catching it. If you’ve watched the news or followed the situation on social media, you’ve undoubtedly seen references to “flattening the curve.” This means spacing out the number of infections over a long period of time to avoid overwhelming hospitals and the healthcare system.

Social Distancing and Sheltering in Place

One of the most important aspects of flattening the curve is known as social distancing. This involves avoiding crowds and “sheltering in place” to reduce your risks of becoming infected or infecting others if you’ve already contracted the virus. For millions of Americans, these terms mean working remotely for the foreseeable future. While there are many highly effective tools to maintain productivity while working remotely, people who are used to working in collaborative environments may find this change difficult to cope with. After all, communicating over chat, email, or even video messaging isn’t nearly as convenient or personal as simply walking over to your colleague’s desk or having an in-person meeting. In addition, life outside of work can also be challenging when self-quarantining. Ohio has ordered all bars and restaurants to close, and many other retailers are following suit. That means it’s difficult to find things to keep you occupied outside of work hours—especially when you’re not supposed to meet up with friends or family.

These Tips Can Keep You Focused, Productive, and Upbeat during the Pandemic

The challenges of working from home and being restricted in your post-work activities aren’t always just logistic. They can also involve feelings of isolation, especially for people who live alone. On the other hand, parents may struggle with managing housebound children whose schools have canceled their academic years—all while trying to keep up with the demands of their full-time jobs from a makeshift home office. If you’re working from home, are practicing social distancing, or are in a “shelter in place” situation, following these tips can help you maintain your sanity:

• Maintain your morning and evening schedules—Working from home has its drawbacks, but also many benefits, including zero commute time. However, don’t let that become an excuse to stay up late and sleep in, or to break your normal routine. Waking up at the same time as usual, showering, getting dressed, and preparing for your day as if you’re traveling to the office can help you stay on track.
• Check-in frequently with coworkers and managers—Your workplace may have already implemented more frequent meetings and check-ins due to the pandemic. If not, scheduling your own among your team can help keep everyone on the same page without the benefit of face-to-face communication.
• Take regular, short breaks—Working from home on a regular basis can be a challenge for many workers, as they may be less likely to get up and move around throughout the day. Without the need to attend physical meetings or walk over to a coworker’ desk to ask a question, it’s easy to be stuck in your chair or on your couch for hours. Taking short breaks to accomplish household tasks can help get you moving and refocus your energy throughout the day.
• Be sure to get exercise—Spring is here, and while many of us are stuck inside during the day, the weather outside is warming by the week. Take advantage of nice days by going for walks, jogs, or just enjoying nature. While outdoors, be mindful of leaving a six-foot gap when approaching or passing near other people, and stay inside if you feel sick.
• Take a break from the news—COVID-19 has dominated the airwaves, newspapers, and online media outlets for several weeks now. While it’s important to stay up to date on the latest recommendations from healthcare experts, as well as information from Ohio and the federal government, too much news intake can be detrimental. During this time, it’s important to stay calm, and listening to 24/7 coverage of the pandemic often creates more anxiety.
• Keep kids busy—If you have kids, one of your biggest challenges right now is keeping their minds occupied while school is canceled. Use this time to put their brains to work with arts and crafts, virtual museum tours, educational movies, brain teasers, board games, and more.
• Stay in touch with friends and loved ones—One of the hardest parts about sheltering in place and social distancing is being away from friends and family members. It’s especially important to avoid contact with people in your life who are elderly or in poor health. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t talk to them. Keep in touch via phone calls, video chats, and text messages. Talking to the people most important to you can help you—and them—stay sane during this difficult time.

Nurenberg Paris Is Here for Injured Victims during the COVID-19 Pandemic

At Nurenberg Paris, we know that the challenges of the pandemic are tough enough for individuals and families to deal with already. It’s even worse when they’re suffering from the aftermaths of serious accidents or injuries. We know that injuries don’t abide by schedules or only happen when it’s convenient—they happen anytime, anywhere, and to anyone. If you or someone you love was hurt because of another person’s negligence, we’re here to help throughout the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. Call us, email us, or fill out the form on our website to tell us about your injury. Our electronic communication systems have been in place for years, and nothing has changed on that end for us. We’ll review your information and get back to you right away. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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