For many of us, staying home may seem like a dream come true. For others, a nightmare. I say it might be a little bit of both. Humans usually are happier and more productive when adhering to a set schedule with mostly "known" variables: lunch is at the same time each day, paperwork of any variety should be done, and other tasks within certain parameters.
Doing daily tasks in a new environment (a.k.a. "home") or having your entire schedule hurled into chaos can really put some people on edge. With the current stress levels, worry, and anxiety about work, schools and health, it's already easy to fall into a depressed state of mind. Without an environment that supports structure, it can be even more difficult to get yourself motivated to do...well, anything. If this sounds familiar, try to get a buddy who doesn't mind texting or calling to check in. Hold each other accountable to a particular goal that you share with each other. Don't judge each other--everyone has different points of struggle--just help and challenge each other. It could be a reminder to workout, or a reminder to keep up on a daily shower. Whatever your buddy needs.
Stress weakens the immune system, which is the opposite of what we want to happen during these times. It's important to keep a positive mental attitude. This is a great time to catch up on a favorite show, read that book you keep promising you'll read "one day", or call that long-neglected friend you've been meaning to contact. Human interaction has been a pivotal part of society, even for introverts, but we need to rethink how we connect now. You don't have to spend days completely alone. There are lots of tools that allow you to contact people and have conversations. Share some cheesy jokes, inspirational thing you found online, or just that you're out of toilet paper and feel like crying. That's what friends and connections are for.
Don't forget to try out your creative muscle. Maybe it's been a while since you've played an instrument, tried to draw (yes, stick figures count), baked something, or written a poem. Even if nothing seems to strike your fancy, give it a try. You literally don't have anything to lose except a little bit of a now seemingly-endless amount of time. If there's a hobby you've never tried, you can probably find videos on YouTube, Creativebug, or bluprint to help you learn.
If your whole family is self-quarantined, drag out old board games, a deck of cards, or some movies. Start reading a book aloud, even if your kids are older. They may roll their eyes, but I believe you are NEVER too old to have someone read aloud to you. I mean, that's part of why audio books exist...so...yeah. This is definitely shaking up the routines of our lives, but we all have ways to connect with each other in a more focused way than before, even if it is via phone or internet.
Most of all, humanity is tough. We didn't come through everything in our past to suddenly be defeated by an overzealous flu bug. We've got this, as long as we practice the same hygiene things we should be doing all the time to reduce germs: washing hands, coughing into inner elbows, and sanitizing surfaces when needed. We're going to come out on the other side even tougher.
What do you plan to use this time to do? Relax? Finish a video game or book? Repaint a room? Let us know in the comments if you have an idea to help others keep busy...and sane.