Omicron cases in India have been increasing rapidly and now it is becoming common to see people around us try covid positive and showing flu-like symptoms such as cold, cough, headache, fever, and sore throat.
Considering the mild nature of this new strain, government home isolation guidelines recommend a 7-day rather than 10-day quarantine period for mild, asymptomatic cases.
While people are quickly recovering from this new strain, being confined to a room for a week doing nothing can be challenging and take a toll on mental health. Experts advise that one should stay active and develop a routine during home isolation.
develop a routine
“It’s important to follow a routine that includes exercise, nutrition, healthy eating habits, good sleep, frequent breaks, and limited screen time,” Dr. Chandni Tugnait, MD (AM) Psychotherapist, Life Alchemist, Coach & Healer, Founder & Director, Gateway of Healing said about maintaining good mental health during the pandemic.
Stay active, listen to some music.
To stay active and happy, try to fit a physical activity into your day, such as jogging, light exercise, or light dancing to your favorite music. This releases endorphins, which are the “happy hormones” that make us feel better, says Arushi Malik, consulting psychologist at Kaleidoscope, a unit of Dr. Bakshi’s Healthcare.
Practice mindfulness
When you can’t leave your room and not interact with the world, it’s easy to get sucked into negativity. When you’re alone with your thoughts, make sure you focus on the right ones; Mindfulness practices and meditation can help you deal with negativity when you don’t have enough distractions.
Breathing exercises can help combat emotional distress. In addition to making mindfulness a habit, it can be very helpful in your routine. Take some time to meditate, practice gratitude, and keep a journal.
Personal care
Self-care takes on even greater importance when you’re confined to a room, and that includes connecting with loved ones through messages, calls, or video interactions.
“Identify the things and activities that bring you emotional peace, whether it’s talking to a friend, rewatching a movie you love, reading a book, or painting,” says Malik.
Guidelines for home isolation
Here are some health guidelines to follow during home isolation, by Dr. Pritam Moon, Consultant Physician, Wockhardt Hospital Mira Road.
– Do not self-medicate, go to blood tests or radiological images such as chest X-ray or computed tomography of the chest without consulting a doctor.
– The patient should avoid sharing utensils, dishes, bedding, towels and other personal items with other family members. The patient must follow good hand hygiene.
– Disinfect surfaces such as remote controls, counters, tables, doorknobs, bathroom handles, toilets.
– Do not allow visitors at home, if you are under home quarantine.
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