Some tips for Self Isolation

I've been signed off work for a few months with my mental health. It has meant long stretches at home without work to focus on. In particularly bad weeks, I can end up finding it difficult to see friends and family as well. I know this isn't the same as self isolating or socially excluding but these are some tips I have learnt, just in case they are useful for anyone: 

1 Create a schedule for the week. Even if its full of simple tasks like doing the dusting on Monday; cooking a big meal on Tuesday. The structure helps me get up and feel motivated. Even if it is just small achievements its something. 

2 Don't let your mornings and nights slip too much. Its easy to stay up late and sleep in when you have time off. But when you knock your routine out of whack, it can really be hard to get it back. Getting changed helps too. 

3 Being isolated doesn't mean you have to be bed ridden. I found a lot of pressure that 'being off work' means you have to act like your off sick. Or being worried that someone might see me and think Im just 'skiving off'. But getting outdoors whenever you can is really important. So is enjoying yourself and relaxing. It is an anxious time, so its absolutely ok to give yourself permission to do whatever you can that would reduce stress. 

4 Eat meals regularly. I find it super easy to slip into just snacking all the time when Im in the house. But keeping regular meals helps keep your structure. Structure is important. 

5 Be creative. Its a lovely opportunity to develop a skill or hone a craft or try something brand new that your absolutely terrible at. Even if it is silly. Paint an egg. Make a wooden bus out of wine boxes and paint some happy passengers. Whatever it is. You will have made something new that wouldn't be in the world. That's cool and gives you a good sense of achievement. 

Hope thats helpful to someone. Sending you love folks.