What Cabin Fever? Five ways to stay connected with the world

As the reality of the lockdown restrictions starts to set in, you may have realised that staying connected with the wider world takes more work than normal. Don’t worry, we’ve got five ways to keep yourself involved with the bigger picture.

Listen to the radio

Listening to the radio is a great way of bringing some normality back into your life - there will still be live interviews and music playlists being broadcast despite the lockdown restrictions. It’s a great way of knowing that (even though it might not feel like it) life is still going on outside of the house.

Going for walks 

Going outside for walks and actually seeing other people is a crucial part of staying connected with the world. It lets you know that everyone is still here despite the fact that we’re all cooped up inside for the meantime. If you’re feeling especially in need of some human interaction, you could even try smiling or saying good morning - just don’t expect a response from everyone.

Watch live television

It’s time to drop your favourite Netflix series and get back on the terrestrial channels. Watching live television - even if it is a re-run of The Chase or yet another episode of Poirot - makes you feel part of the world. It’s comforting to know that other people are watching the same thing as you in homes across the country.

Organise group FaceTime

Being restricted from seeing friends and family is a big one for lots of people during the lockdown. Organising group FaceTime sessions is one of the simplest and most effective ways of feeling like you are still connected with them. You might not be in the same room as your friends and family but you can still have the same banter and conversation over the phone that you would have in-person.

Be observant

You might not notice it but one of the main things that make you feel connected with the world is simply being present. Remind yourself to be aware of everything the next time you leave the house to exercise, head out in the garden or do your essential shopping. Make sure to notice the weather and look out for the changes that Spring brings - it might sound a tad wishful but being observant really will help you stay connected during this uncertain time.

When we’re restricted to four walls and a short walk to the shop, it’s easy to feel isolated. During this time, it’s important to stay connected with the world - try our five tips above and we reckon the bigger picture will feel that little bit clearer.

All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.