How to combat loneliness in lockdown

Lonely in Lockdown

Lockdown is a word that a year ago had a completely different meaning and less prevalence. Now it seems to be the main topic of conversation and consistently spoken about in the media, one thing that doesn't necessarily get as much exposure because everyone is focused on covid is the impact lockdown is having on peoples mental health, specifically loneliness and isolation.

Unsurprisingly as we've had some form of restrictions in place since March in the UK the feelings of loneliness and isolation are on the rise, and are affecting everyone but significantly stronger for those living alone at this time. There's light at the end of the tunnel with vaccines advancing daily but I've put together a few tips and tricks to get through these feelings and hopefully give you a more positive mindset

Try to schedule regular check-ins

Just because you're living alone right now or experiencing loneliness doesn't mean you are alone. Whoever is important in your life whether that's family or friends or maybe an early dating scenario after using a Norfolk dating site* during the first lockdown try and schedule in regular contact with them. Whether that's a telephone call, a text exchange or something more social like doing a quiz together or playing a game over zoom, schedule times and try and spread this out across the days so you have someone new to talk to each day. If you are single and looking to date then try out dating agency Norfolk* and connect with other likeminded people seeking a relationship during these tricky times

Stay in the moment and create a structure to your routine

Thinking too far ahead right now can be overwhelming, while it's important to know that the current situation won't last forever when you're feeling lonely thinking that far ahead can seem daunting, it's a long time to deal with your feelings. Try to take each day as it comes and stay in the moment taking things a step at a time, enjoying simple activities such as making a cup of tea or watching an episode of your favourite programme. If possible try and create a structure to your routine to stop the days all becoming one long blur. This can be as simple as waking up at a set time and having breakfast, or going to the shops on X day. It helps make everything more manageable and sets an expectation of what's next.

Learn something new

Distraction is a brilliant technique to keep loneliness feelings at bay, so look at your situation as a positive - you have lots of extra time you can use to learn something new or take up a new hobby you've always wanted to do. Use the extra time to better yourself and develop a skill. Have a google and see if there are any forums or online communities around your new hobby you could get involved with. I've met some of the nicest girls through blogging who are so supportive and friendly and I have no doubt that every hobby you can think of will have an active community online

Get Outside for a walk

The health benefits for getting outside, taking a walk and fresh air is overwhelmingly positive. We're in a luckier situation than in March in that our exercise and daily trips outside are not limited however the recommendations do want you to remain locally and only travel for essential reasons. Head outside, find a local beauty spot, feel the weather and seasons change, and just take in some of the outside world it will 100% have a positive affect on you just make sure you stay safe while exercising

Most importantly know you're not alone in this, keep plodding on and if you need additional support reach out to charities that will support you such as the samaritans, mind or NHS Loneliness guide and remember - this will pass.

How's your mental health been affected during covid19?