Managing Isolation During Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic has proven not only detrimental in terms of the virus’s health effects, but also in terms of the government’s reaction and requirements for isolation. Courtesy of the Molotov cocktail of chronic unemployment, environmentally-induced depression, and trauma related to the loss of a loved one, suicide rates are up like never before. Human beings are social animals, so the standard of isolating coupled with a natural paranoia of infection can easily overwhelm the average American.

How can we manage isolation?

Let’s explore a few coping procedures that will keep your head above water, utilizing one’s adaptive abilities in the face of unprecedented events.

1. Stay Connected Through Technology

It’s rare to sing genuine praises for the societal worth of social media, but virtual meetings by way of Facebook, Skype, or other online meetups may prove mandatory for one’s mental health during these times. Sure, it’s not the same as congregating in-person, but individuals have proven the ability to achieve incredible things by way of the digital medium. A great example includes a feature film available on Shudder network, titled Host, which was shot over a week utilizing Skype technology between the actors.

2. Use Everything You Have

There may be no better person to serve as an example of this than former mob boss Michael Franzese. Having served nearly two years in solitary confinement, he stresses to read books, exercise, and eat well. Make use of everything in your immediate environment for maximum positive effect.

3. Limit Your News Intake

Stay informed about the proceedings of the virus and its effects on your community, but then pull away. Turn off your television or radio, put down the newspaper. This is a situation beyond your control, so focus your attention on your own day-in and day-out set of experiences.

Remember: This is a unique, but temporary, situation.