How to manage your mental health if you self-isolate

Whatever the limits and constraints, try to get some nature exposure and exercise, even in a garden, terrace or balcony. You can also take care of the houseplants or open the windows to let fresh air in the room.

Keep bathing and brushing your teeth as before, and go to bed at healthy times to get adequate sleep. Try doing something else apart from eating, sleeping and watching Netflix. Any hobby or activity helps.

Avoid sitting in front of screens all day: Long periods of screen gazing, whether it’s a TV, PC or a smartphone, can disrupt your sleep and deteriorate your overall wellbeing. This is due to the blue light that most devices emit.

Try getting into arts and crafts, listening to podcasts, knitting, meditation, cooking new stuff, writing, gardening, or reading.

• Stay Connected: Even during a lockdown, we can be social using email, social media, video conferencing and the phone.
• Limit your news intake: Too much virus news all day can harm your mental health. Limit news intake to a few times a day.
• The Negative Spiral: Self-isolation can sometimes thrust us into a negative spiral if we start to overthink and be self-critical. It is best to stay positive and optimistic.