Self- isolation – what does this mean for students?
Students in self-isolation hit headlines recently, with heart-breaking stories of students left neglected with minimal resources and food. Understandably, both students and universities across the UK are keen to prevent this from happening again. If you’re a student wondering how to self-isolate properly, and what to do in the process, keep reading…
Tough times in self-isolation
There is no denying that self-isolation can be tough. And if, as a student, you’re wondering how to cope, then it’s important to know you’re not alone. There are many questions being asked such as – should I go to university? Should I go home? More importantly, how can I survive self-isolation? The most important thing to do is not let all the worrying news about coronavirus get to you too much. Granted, its easier said than done, but there are ways to reduce your chance of catch the virus (and avoid going stir crazy in the process).
Keep healthy when communal living
In shared accommodation, it’s natural for things to get a bit messy. Everyone can be guilty of sometimes not doing their bit, so at a time like this it’s important to stay on top of things. For example, cleaning surfaces down every time you use them, and using different towels to everyone in your house will help. It’s also worth considering removing the hand towel in the bathroom and use hand gel and paper towels instead.
Living with housemates
The government has given us these tips when it comes to distancing yourself from housemates:
- Avoid sleeping in a common area during the 14-day period and don’t share a bed with others
- Keep the time you spend in shared places to a minimum, like bathrooms, sitting rooms and kitchens. Be sure to well ventilate all your rooms
- For the kitchen-sharers amongst you, try not to cook at the same time and take your dinners into your bedrooms.
Mental health
Although self-isolation restricts non-essential travel, getting fresh air and exercise will help keep you stay sane. Also, exercise helps our bodies release any tension, so make sure you take advantage of it as much as possible. If you are confined to being stuck in all day, then the chances are it will affect your mental health. It’s important to keep in touch with friends and family to help you feel connected to the outside world.
Helpers across all different communities are already setting up ways to support each other, from doing food trips to supplying each other with art material to keep busy with. It’s worth following the #ViralKindness campaign on Twitter, which gives you a great platform to offer help to one another.
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