Staying sane during COVID-19

During these weird times, the lack of structure in our lives can drive anyone insane. As high schoolers that have spent their entire lives having to wake up at a specific time, go to the same classes at the same time every day, and doing homework until they fall asleep, having no set schedule can throw off their mental and physical health. Tons of students are now sleeping all day and staying up all night, skipping their homework, and laying around doing nothing. Because of this complete change of routine, it’s important for everyone to find ways to normalize their daily routines.

1. Set an alarm. Even if you aren’t a morning person, it’s important to have an alarm so you don’t sleep all day. Waking up at the same time every day lets your body get used to routines again and prevents you from sleeping all day and eventually wrecking your sleep schedule.
2. Find a hobby. Being trapped inside all day without being able to spend time with friends made a lot of people realize they don’t have any hobbies. With all of the extra free time, it will be easy to try different things until you find something you enjoy. Try painting, learning an instrument you have at your house, or even writing in a journal. Trying new things can help you take your mind off of everything happening.
3. Go on daily walks. Taking a stroll around the neighborhood allows you to take a break and relax. Even if you don’t get to hang out with people, you still have the chance to get out of your house and spend some time in the sun. It’s not only good for your physical health but also your mental health.
4. Limit social media time. In this time of isolation, most people have found themselves spending excessive time on social media. On most phones, there’s a setting where people can limit the amount of time they spend on specific apps. In doing so people can be more productive because they won’t spend an excessive amount of time on their phones.
5. Video call friends. Because life is weird right now, its important to keep in touch with friends and family. Not being able to see people daily can take its toll, but there are plenty of ways to stay in contact. Weekly video calls with friends and family can help everything feel a little more normal.