5 Tips for Reducing Stress While Home Alone

When you are spending a lot of time at home alone, whether in self-isolation or because
you are ill, it can be really easy to get stressed out. Right now, the pandemic around the
world is creating enough stress on its own, but it gets worse when you have to be
quarantined alone.

If you are experiencing signs of stress like constant worry and panic, problems sleeping,
unusual eating habits, and increased use of alcohol or drugs, then the following tips can
be very useful for you.

1. Limit How Often You Watch the News

It can be hard to walk away, but if you are currently staying home because of the
Coronavirus pandemic, you really need to be careful with how much time you are
devoting to updates. While you don’t want to unplug completely, try to limit how often
you watch the news. Try getting your updates just once a day – they repeat a lot of
information, so that is really all you need. Choose just one way to get your news, and
leave it at that.

2. Have “No Social Media” Blocks

When you are spending a lot of time alone, social media can seem like a good way to
keep up with your friends and family. While it definitely helps, you might notice that
absorbing too much of it is hurting your mental health. If you find that you feel fine
before logging on, then are in a bad, irritable, sad, or upset mood after checking
Facebook or Twitter, it’s time to limit your time on social media.

A better strategy is to have blocks of time where you don’t use social media at all. The
length of time depend son your routine, but try for blocks of 1-2 hours at a time.

3. Take Care of Your Mental Health

To reduce stress while you are spending a lot of time home alone, you want to focus on
your mental health. This is what is going to help you de-stress. Sometimes, because it
actually reduces stress and anxiety. In other ways, it is more about distracting your mind
so that you can focus on other things.

For example, if you need fresh air, head outside to go for a walk. Keep your distance
from others if you are social distancing, but just getting outside in the fresh air and
getting some exercise is amazing for your emotional health. Some other ideas include
reading, doing meditation, and participating in baking or making crafts.

4. Take Care of Your Physical Health

In addition to your mental health, you can reduce stress by taking care of your body as
well. This includes getting more exercise, eating a nutritious diet, and drinking water.
But keep in mind that eating healthy doesn’t mean being on a restrictive diet or never
having treats. Don’t burden your mind right now with dieting or weight loss. Just try to
balance your meals and snacks with something healthy that also includes some
indulgent treats.

5. Socialize From a Distance

Even when you need to keep your physical distance from others, you can still socialize!
Connect with friends or loved ones on Zoom or FaceTime, text or call them, or just talk
online when you get the chance.