The longer we’re in this lockdown, the worse the consequences seem to become. Perhaps one of the biggest consequences is loneliness. Now more than ever we are dependent upon ourselves: we hardly see our friends and family, don’t have a lot of pleasant (social) activities and new contacts can (almost) no longer be made. Loneliness in 2020 affects more people than ever. Recent research by the RIVM shows that 27% of the Dutch feel more lonely now, than they did before the corona crisis. Luckily there are a number of things you can do to help decrease the amount of loneliness in quarantine. In this article you will find some ideas!
Talk about it
Sharing your thoughts, feelings and information is an effective way to maintain your relationships. We’re all in this together, so sharing your concerns and feelings about the situation can make you feel less alone. Sidenote: it is also very important to talk about a different subject than corona. For example, reminisce about good memories you have with each other or organize an online drink or pub quiz.
Do something nice for one another
Doing something nice for someone else increases your happiness and the happiness of the other!
What can you do?
- Make a video with a sweet message and send it to your loved ones
- Make Christmas packages
- Send a (Christmas) card to your loved ones
- Have you finished a good book? Pass it on to someone else! Nice tip: put a note in it with a sweet message.
- Do groceries or other chores for someone that is sick or more vulnerable.
Keep moving
The moment you stop moving, you will feel less useful, which in turn has a negative effect on the feelings of loneliness.
What is it that you can do?
- Take a nice walk and try to bring variety to your walking route. That way you might discover new places!
- Try a different coffee-to go every week.
- Read a book (in the park maybe?).
- Try out a new recipe (double chocolate cheesecake?).
- Transform your home into a December-proof version! Did you put up the Christmas tree yet? Is the mistletoe hanging from the ceiling? Do you already have your extra thick winter socks ready?
In this blog you can find more useful tips on social events that you can have within the current corona guidelines.
We need each other, it is so important to keep looking for each other. Stay in touch with each other. Despite the 1.5 meters, there are possibilities! Do you feel like these tips and ideas are not working for you? Click here for more information about online help via NiceDay.
