It’s 2020 and the entire world is under restrictions and lockdowns-something no one could have ever imagined. Streets are empty and the busiest cities in the world-New York, Dubai, Mumbai are the exact opposite of busy! Everyone is stuck at home and many are apart from loved ones, family & friends. After a few weeks into lockdown, the loneliness sets in for everyone. We may be feeling anxious in a phase of life where answers are indefinite. We may be feeling scared as to what the future holds. We may be feeling stressed as to what the economy and our jobs hold in the coming months. And most of all we may be feeling lonely, as we are restricted from our usual social gatherings. It’s important to know that this is extremely normal and it’s what almost each and every individual on this planet is feeling right now. However, we are lucky to be able to live in a world where technology allows us to communicate and see each other through chats and video calls. In our usual busy lives, we miss out on bonding with our friends and family members and this is the best opportunity for us to catch up on that. Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call an old colleague, roommate, school friend or anyone else you may have not spoken to in years. Make use of this time to bond with others. Some ways to get started might be
- to have a virtual date,
- make virtual plans to get your friends group together,
- make breakfast or dinner plans with others through video call,
- update others on your how your day went through regular emails,
- Play online games with others and have a game night
- Join a virtual class-either an educational course, a Zumba class, a live yoga class, etc.
- Join Facebook groups and Facebook live events as well as similar events on other social media platforms
With all the advancements in today’s world, we can use this to our benefit to stay connected as much as possible. It is vital during these times to maintain our mental health and focus on the positives. Be grateful for the world around us and uplift others in the process. Motivate yourself to start a new habit. Take self-care and make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and keeping to a good routine. It’s the time to pick up new hobbies or get back to old hobbies you didn’t find time for before. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help from others. If you believe your emotions are affecting your everyday routine and work, please get in touch with a specialist today. These are trying times that will test your emotions in different ways. If you are suffering from insomnia, decreased appetite, decreased mood or having suicidal thoughts, please call someone who can help today. Health Travellers Worldwide is here to help you in these trying times and their personalized health advisory can connect you with the care you need. Remember we are all in this together and we can help each other through this difficult period with the support of each other.
By
Dr. Vinitha Baskaran (M.B.B.S)
In House Medical Consultant
Also Read: Medical consultation virtually by staying home
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are the personal views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any governmental/other agency. This article contains facts that have been obtained from reliable sources, but may be subject to change with time. The author will not be responsible in any way for the comments given by reader/s.
