While many countries are slowly relaxing their social distancing measures, a large portion of the workforce is still working remotely. This can be difficult to cope with, especially when many activities are not yet open and meeting with friends is often restricted. 

Loneliness can be a subtle feeling, but can wear you down over time, and can cause further negative emotions to arise. Here are eight tips to help you when you’re feeling down or alone.

Find little things to look forward to

Maybe some of your plans got cancelled or postponed, which can be frustrating. However, being confined in one house or area allows you to notice the small things. For example, you can look forward to having delicious tea or breakfast in the morning, or to an afternoon walk or stroll outside. This not only increases feelings of happiness but also makes you feel more appreciative, which translates into a positive mood. 

Have a set weekly call with friends or family

Setting a specific time and day will make it easier for everyone, and prevent any last-minute cancellations. Also, through digital meeting platforms like Skype or Zoom, you can reconnect with anyone, even people you haven’t spoken to in ages. This way you’ll keep some level of social connection, and this can alleviate the feelings of loneliness, and get you out of the rut.

Learn a new hobby or revisit an old one

If you’re working from home, chances are you’re saving a lot of time usually spent commuting. You can use this time to learn a new skill you’ve always wanted to (there are plenty of online courses available), or to revisit an old hobby you may have started but never found the time for.

Exercise 

This won’t turn into a list of the endless benefits of exercise, which you’re surely familiar with. However, exercise is also shown to make you happier and more energised, which can combat feelings of sluggishness. Also, now with online memberships or free YouTube videos, you can exercise from the comfort of your own home, with a huge variety of workouts to choose from. It is also useful when you’re sitting all day, and can prevent muscle pain.

Get some natural light in 

Chances are, you’re spending time inside and on your electronic devices all day. It can be difficult to get in a 30-minute walk every day, and sometimes even just to step outside. This is why natural sunlight (and fresh air while you’re at it) can help refresh you and start your day off right.

Journal about your feelings

Even if the days may seem repetitive, try journaling. This doesn’t need to be anything fancy, a quick stream of consciousness at the end of the day can alleviate a lot of mental stress. Also, by letting out your feelings in a private and non-judgmental zone, you’ll free up your brain of the negative. It can also help to journal as if speaking to a friend or loved one. 

More structured practice is gratitude journaling. Here, you focus on the things in life you are grateful for, which can help you think more positively about your day.

Reach out to digital therapists

If you feel like you need to talk to someone qualified, digital therapy is always an option. This can be helpful if you experience intense feelings of sadness, loneliness, or anxiety, and have trouble with fatigue or motivation. Digital therapy is available in many forms, such as texting, phone calls, or video calls.

Takeaway

These eight tips are useful for combating loneliness during remote working, and can also help in creating a more positive outlook on life, and escaping the

Andrea Mandova is freelance writer who specialises in creating engaging content about health, wellness, fitness, psychology, and other aspects of a balanced, healthy and happy life.