How to Cope Through Self-Isolation

Isolation comes with huge challenges since it is an abrupt departure from normal life to no contact with family members and friends. Successful self-isolation is a battle more of the mind than a physical one in a period of fourteen days that feels more like a lifetime.  While there is no guidebook, there are many activities that a self-isolated person can do to pass the time and ward off the anxiety and boredom. The students shared how they were able to cope and shared some tips on how to survive.

On the Phone: Bryton Codd, Belizean Student in Isolation

“I tried to minimize the amount of exposure to media and what is being covered worldwide because it really just builds that anxiety. So I just minimize the amount of news articles I read pertaining to the COVID-19 outbreak. I started to do stuff like colouring and doing puzzles. I have assignments as well that I need to complete for the semester, but I messaged my professors and I told them that I am not in the mental state to continue with my assignments. After I am finished with my quarantine, then I will get back to my assignments. But that’s just home much it throws you off from the normal state of doing things.”

Mia Miles

Mia Miles, Belizean Student

“I would advise you to take the proper precautionary steps before travelling. Make sure you wear a mask or anything you have available to you because I know there is a shortage right now for masks. Cover your face; try to remain six feet away whenever you are travelling. Try to keep a distance from other individuals, constantly wash your hands. The sanitizers with the alcohol content above sixty-five [percent] that’s said to help. And when you reach home, do your part, do your role, don’t hug and kiss your family. Just wait and know that by waiting, you are protecting someone. You are potentially saving someone’s life by just waiting and doing your job and making sure that you are keeping yourself and others safe.”