Social distancing doesn’t mean you need to feel isolated, follow our guide to help yourself and those around you.
What is social distancing?
Social distancing puts space between people. When people who are infected with the virus stay away from others, they can’t pass it to anyone else. This way, fewer people get sick at the same time. Then, doctors and hospitals are better able to keep up with treating those who need care.
You can find The Government guidelines here, but their recommended steps you should take include:
- Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19). These symptoms include high temperature and/or new and continuous cough
- Avoid non-essential use of public transport when possible
- Work from home, where possible. Your employer should support you to do this. Please refer to employer guidance for more information
- Avoid large and small gatherings in public spaces, noting that pubs, restaurants, leisure centres and similar venues are currently shut as infections spread easily in closed spaces where people gather together.
- Avoid gatherings with friends and family. Keep in touch using remote technology such as phone, internet, and social media
Use telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services
What do I do if I think I have COVID-19 symptoms?
The most common symptoms are a new continuous cough and/or a high temperature. If you live alone and have either, no matter how mild, stay at home for seven days after the symptoms began. If you live with others, everyone in the house must stay at home and not leave for 14 days. Find The Government’s guide to staying home here.
The situation with coronavirus is constantly changing and it can be hard to keep up with the latest advice. Always use trusted sources of information including The Government and The NHS.
19 Ways to look after yourself and stay positive while social distancing
1. Know the facts but limit your time on news sites and social media. Make sure your information is from a reliable source.
2. Eat healthily boost your immune system with lots of extra vitamins. Fruit and veg are your friends. Don’t forget to stay hydrated.
3. Contact neighbours particularly elderly people who might not have a local support network. Create a WhatsApp, Facebook or email group so that people can contact each other with their concerns or if they need help.
4. Have a Routine that brings comfort and relaxation. Regular chats with positive people, exercise, yoga, and meditation.
5. Digital detox unfollow groups, sites or people that are getting you down.
6. Support small businesses hop online and buy a voucher to spend later on and use small independent companies for deliveries and other purchases. Many independent food outlets, grocers, bakers and butchers have started to offer a delivery service. If you are self-isolating prepay when you order and leave a note on the door telling them to leave you delivery on the doorstep and ring the bell.
7. Don’t panic buy there should be plenty to go around if everyone just buys what they need
8. Sleep make sure you are clocking up eight hours a night.
9. De-clutter your kitchen cupboards, organise your wardrobe or alphabetise your bookshelf (OK, we really don’t think you should do that far!). Being at home is an opportunity to create a zen-like sanctuary.
10. Watch a rom-com or anything else upbeat. Now is not the time for hard-hitting dramas.
11. Feed your soul read, draw, take a long bath or cook a new dish. Do the things you never normally have time to do.
12. Fresh air and exercise are great for your immune system, as well as your mental wellbeing. Open windows often and head out to your balcony or garden if you have them. Connect with nature – get out for walks, just keep your distance from others.
13. Stay in touch self-isolating doesn’t mean you need to feel isolated. Use tech to connect with friends and family regularly. Get your kids to post letters and drawings to their friends.
14. Embrace home-work wear it’s all about comfort, get those trackie bottoms on high rotation.
15. Talk to one of your besties. Texting is great, but nothing beats a proper chat, especially if you are self-isolating. Pour and cup of tea (or a G&T) and pick up the phone.
16. Exercise There are lots of free resources for at-home workouts. Hop onto YouTube and find one that is right for you
17. Focus on the positives communities have come together and people are helping each other. Always look for the good stories.
18. Talk to your children about what is happening. With schools closed children will be concerned about the change in their routine. BBC Newsround has some good information you can share including video clips and answers to FAQs.
19. Be kind to yourself and those around you. Always.
Your daily self-care guide
Use our tick sheet to make sure you are looking after yourself. Try to do these things each day.
Download a printable version of our chart to use at home here
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