Living Alone During the Coronavirus Outbreak

 

During the COVID-19 outbreak many are struggling with homeschooling their kids and work-from-home jobs and desperately want an hour or two away from the kids. Some may even make funny remarks about needing to social distance from the constant reminder of husbands and roommates.

But what about those who live alone during this pandemic and living in isolation alone? They don’t have the luxury of squabbling with a spouse, or trying to help a child on their homework. How many of those living alone would love to do anything with anyone so long as it was together?

But while the fears may seem small and selfish, they are reminded of the things that can’t be controlled—families getting sick, and the country and the world wrestling with interconnected economies and fate. One thing looms in people who live alone—what if I get depressed and I can’t help myself? What if I get sick and no one can help me? What if I die here alone?

During times of normality, it may be nice to have the space to deal with one’s needs and moods, figuring out things for yourself, eating whatever or whenever you like, staying up late, turning up the stereo very loud, or even practicing the same song on an instrument until you’ve memorized it. Living alone can be a bit refreshing most of the time, being free of judgment of the choices you make.

But living many days in isolation in an empty house may feel incomplete. Sometimes we just need in-person contact to enjoy life. it gives one the freedom of answering to yourself as well as requiring a connection with coworkers, friends and family.

Like dark needs light, or day needs dark, solitude needs socializing to work right. Sometimes, no matter how happy we are living in solitude, we need connection and community, to embrace someone and be embrace when we’re afraid.

When you’re lonely and scared we can look forward to a world of remote interactions with some simple tips:

• Be kind to yourself

• Don’t try to do everything

• Allow your thoughts and feelings to come up

• Say it out loud

• You can indulge some impulses

• Try to keep your head about it and be safe

• Have fun

• Accept invitations

• Be creative if you can, but don’t punish yourself if you can’t

• Remember it is temporary