A lot has happened over the past few weeks that has created a lot of change in normal university life and like any big change, it can be difficult to adapt.

While the situation develops and more updates are being released regarding LJMU’s plan to navigate the outbreak and deal with students’ study and accommodation issues, we are given the task of social distancing as to prevent the spread of Corvid-19.

This can be frustrating and scary but a necessary change to our lifestyle that, if done right, can help it be over more quickly.

I want to share some bits I think may be helpful during this unusual time

(Remember, if you have any tips for students, feel free to contact M.Hill@ljmu.ac.uk and I’ll share them! Alternatively, you could share them on our FB Group JMSU Hangout).

Being in self-isolation doesn’t mean hiding from outdoors completely. I find my mood improves if I try to open windows to let fresh air and sunlight in every so often, or if you have a courtyard or garden, take a break and spend some time in it, even if it’s only 15 mins, for a change of scenery.

You may be on your own more often and it can get noticeably quiet if you’re used to more people around. This can really affect you over time. Try finding a chatty radio station or podcast to have on in the background!

A different routine can be very stressful, especially if you feel you should be doing something that you can’t physically do. Try putting in time for home-study during the week when you’d usually have lectures or seminars to help ease that shift.

Take note of what you’re eating day-to-day. Your changed circumstances can alter your appetite and diet, especially if you’re less active. I’m sure you know already but eating right directly affects your health and mood. If you’ve got more time on your hands, make yourself a quarantine-friendly meal plan!

Sometimes it may feel like it’s only bad news. That’s because negative stories get more press. There are good things happening every day despite the unique and challenging situation we are all in. BBC has a section called ‘Uplifting Stories’ which I try to look at each day. Would recommend!

Thank you for reading this, remember the whole of the LJMU community is facing this and although we need to focus on physical distancing, I hope you’d agree with me that social solidarity is so vital in a time like this. Give that friend or family a message and keep in mind, the issue at hand is tough but you are tougher!

Try to avoid speculation and look up reputable sources on the outbreak. You may be confused or angry about the changes to your study and/or accommodation situation. If there is a lack of updates or information it is not due to you being ignored but that the institution is

Social distancing

Think about your diet. Your appetite might change if your routine changes, or if you’re less active than you usually are. Eating regularly and keeping your blood sugar stable can help your mood and energy levels. See our tips on food and mood for more information.

Listen to a chatty radio station or podcast if your home feels too quiet.

Spend time with the windows open to let in the fresh air. Social media could help you stay in touch with people but might also make you feel anxious including if people are sharing news stories or posting about their worries. Consider taking a break or limiting how you use social media.

Health

Can you re-organise any planned therapy or treatments?

Commitments 

Can someone else help you care for any dependents, walk your dog, or take care of any other commitments?

Live in the moment, think about today, less about the next three days, even less about next week; limit thinking about the next few months or years, for now.

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations.  How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in.

Understand it will pass. It’s completely normal and common to experience stress, anxiety and depression when a global infectious disease impacts your everyday life. It’s important to remember that the outbreak will eventually pass and there are ways to minimize your risk and being affected, like washing your hands and practicing basic personal hygiene.

“For most people, the need for human contact is a basic instinct,” she said. “Therefore when you are forced to be alone, it can have a negative impact on wellbeing and psychological health.

If you can reframe your thoughts into being positive, that can help. If it’s possible try to think of this time as an opportunity to get something done. It might be reading a book, doing your ironing, drawing, catching up on something.