You may like being alone. However, even your introversion might get tested during enforced isolation. You need to stay on top of your mental and physical health, otherwise they could fail you.

If one or more of these signs apply to you, the CDC prescribes taking breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories (including social media) because hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting. Also suggested is taking care of your body by making sure to eat right, sleep right, and get plenty of exercise. Lastly, don’t forget to make time to unwind and connect with others.

It may not be easy to see that enforced isolation is taking a toll on your mental health at first. You may feel fine and have a routine, but you should still be cautions. Read on for sings that enforced isolation is taking a toll on your mental health. 

Changes in Sleep Or Eating Patterns

Changes in your sleeping or eating patterns may be subtle, and you may think they will go away without you doing anything. You could be right, but in these troubled times it is not a good idea to chance things. 

These pattern changes could be the result of worsening mental health. Just to be safe, make sure that you are eating right, exercising, keeping a routine, and talking to loved ones regularly. If nothing else, schedule a virtual appointment with a professional.

Worsening of Chronic Issues

Chronic issues can be biological and mental alike. If your chronic issues are getting worse, that’s a bad sign. If normal self-care routines are not working, you may need to schedule a virtual appointment with your health care provider. There may be medicine that could help.

If, however, you can find ways to decrease your stress, then your chronic issues may go back to normal. Stress can have a very real effect upon your body, so make sure you are taking care of yourself. Meditate or practice yoga for some help calming your body and mind.

Increased Use of Drugs and Alcohol

You don’t have anywhere to be, so you might as well drink that bottle of wine, right? Maybe not. You might be drinking more than usual because you are worried about the world and miss your friends. This is called medicating and it is extremely unhealthy. It also applies to increased use of drugs (even prescription ones).

Don’t overdo it. Your body and mind need a lot of care during this pandemic, so be careful not to let your vices go out of control. The result will be a decline in your overall wellbeing, even if you have a couple fun nights.

Difficulty Concentrating

If you find it hard to concentrate on work or even that Netflix show you’re watching, that could be a sign that enforced isolation is taking a toll on you. Your anxiety and loneliness are sitting in your subconscious ruminating. You may not be consciously aware of this, but that’s what’s causing your lack of concentration.

Again, self-care and professional care (if needed) are what you need to focus on. Use this clue as a warning sign that isolation is taking its toll and change your habits. Be kind to yourself, keep a schedule, and reach out to loved ones often via the internet.

You Are Always Worrying

Worry is extremely rational right now, but let’s not go crazy. If all you do is worry, that’s not healthy and it could take a toll on your physical health. You need to find ways to distract yourself and cut down on triggers like news websites and social media. It’s good to stay informed, but too much news can increase your anxiety.

Uninstall social media for now if you need to. Focus on a good video game or Netflix series instead! You will get through this and though you feel lonely, you are not alone.