Patients Association - Self-care during self-isolation and social distancing

17 Mar 2020 10:20 AM

People who may have coronavirus, and anyone living with them, are advised to self-isolate at home for fourteen days. This means anyone with the main symptoms of coronavirus (a new continuous cough, and/or high temperature).

Everyone else is advised to avoid contact with others as much as possible. This will usually mean staying at home. This advice could remain in force for a considerable length of time.

This could be a difficult, lonely and frustrating experience, so it’s important to take care of yourself.

If you can, keep in touch with friends and family by phone or online, even if you can’t see them in person.

If you feel well enough, try to keep busy, whether through activities such as cooking, gardening or reading, or through watching films, or even taking light exercise in the garden if you have one available, or otherwise indoors – see the NHS website for suggestions. 

Try to establish a routine, and maintain a sense of normality. If you are working from home, establish a regular pattern for your work.

Drink water to keep yourself hydrated. Eat healthy, well-balanced meals. When possible, get fresh air by having windows open, and keep curtains open to get natural sunlight.

Consider over-the-counter medications, such as paracetamol, to help with symptoms if you have them. Use these according to the instructions on the packet or label and do not exceed the recommended dose.

Resources

Official government guidance for households where someone may be infected

Official government guidance on social distancing

NHS advice on mental health