How do I offer emotional support to friends or co-workers who have been quarantined?

Being quarantined is a different experience for everyone. While some are emotionally okay with it, others may feel really anxious and uncertain. Because we do not understand how different people handle quarantine, it is difficult to offer emotional support. Moreover, we are restricted from helping others in-person because of social distancing rules. However, your worry and concern for a close one are completely valid during this stressful time. Even though it may feel like you aren’t able to help, do not feel so challenged and hopeless because there are still ways you can make a change without putting yourself at risk!

If your friends, family members, or co-workers are quarantined, to offer them emotional support, the best thing to do is to reach out to them directly. Reaching out and discovering ways to stay connected can better their mental state and make the quarantine process much easier to cope with. There are many great places for you to start. Below are some tasks you can offer someone who is quarantined as a way of showing concern.

• Make a phone call to see how the person is doing.

  • For a bit more contact, consider video calling through FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, etc.

• Provide a listening ear and ask how you can help.

• Offer support, such as walking their pet or doing any other outdoor chores.

• Do a contactless drop off of groceries at their front step, so that they have supplies and food for their quarantine period.

• Connect on social media by sharing posts and updates.

• Send a letter or card, as this can be a nice gesture.

• Do an activity like watching a movie or show on Netflix party! It is fun and will keep you in contact while being apart.

• Keep them informed with reliable information so they do not become stressed due to unclarity.

• Help them develop a routine to get them through their quarantine by making sure they are getting enough sleep, exercise, and eating healthy.

Do not feel like you are not doing enough, because your smallest actions can go the longest way. It is important for us to take care of our mental health, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. So, provide as much support and compassion to those around you and remember to take care of yourself as well!

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Source(s): Cuncic, Arlin. (2020, March 18). How to Support a Loved One Affected by Coronavirus. Verywell Mind. Retrieved February 25, 2021, from http://www.verywellmind.com/amp/how-to-support-someone-affected-by-coronavirus-4799662.

Author: Anonymous