Most of us are used to having a daily routine that calls for us to be washed, dressed and out of the front door before the breakfast show finishes. We work, have errands to run, appointments to keep, or kids to get to school. So, for the first few days of our enforced isolation, we probably enjoyed having a lie-in, lounging around in our pyjamas, and watching TV all day. But now what?

Before long, we may start to experience a variety of negative thoughts and emotions such as anxiety, boredom, and loneliness, which, if not kept in check, could develop into a mental health condition that requires treatment. So I’ve put together a list of activities that will help us to keep busy and stay connected, in spite of the circumstances we currently find ourselves in.

Keep to a schedule

Even if we’re on our own, we should try to keep to a regular schedule. Be washed and dressed by a reasonable hour, and start each day with a plan.

Maintain social contact

Although virtual communication may not feel as satisfying as being physically close to someone, it’s much better than no contact at all. Video chatting in particular (FaceTime, Zoom, Houseparty, Skype, etc) has the advantage of allowing us to see others’ facial expressions, and research suggests this technology can help protect against loneliness and depression. Instead of cancelling social events such as book clubs or happy hours, we can hold them online instead. We can also create new events specifically to bring together friends, family, or co-workers. Even just a 10-minute check-in can make a difference, and setting up a daily or weekly schedule in advance can give us something to look forward to. Just make sure to consider those who might not have access to the technology, or who might need an extra hand setting it up.

Do something meaningful

Doing something meaningful each day will give us a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Here are a few suggestions:

• Learn a new skill through a YouTube tutorial or on-line course. Many are discounted (or free) during the crisis.

• Create a family tree using genealogy websites.

• Organise your photo collection or back-up family videos. Compile an on-line album or scrapbook.

• Get creative. Learn to knit, paint, make jewellery, or play an instrument.

• Offer practical help/encouragement/friendship to others.

Stay active

We sometimes forget that our physical and mental health are delicately intertwined. Exercise releases endorphins and promotes relaxation.

• Put on your favourite music and dance!

• Join in TV/YouTube fitness workouts and yoga tutorials

Home Projects

• Clear out your wardrobe. Put aside unwanted items to donate to charity at a later date. Arrange co-coordinating clothes into sections so it's easier to browse in the mornings.

• Order seeds, plants and bulbs online, and get growing.

• Undertake simple DIY projects.

• Listen to podcasts on topics you like while working.

Relax and enjoy

Having something to look forward to at the end of each day can help keep us motivated.

• Take out a subscription for your favourite magazine.

• Cook your favourite comfort food.

• Watch the latest box set.

• Join an online book club.

• Create a playlist of happy songs.

• Listen to audio-books through services like Audible and BBC Sounds if you struggle to read.

• Take a virtual tour: Many museums offer digital access to their collections, including the Louvre and Guggenheim.

• Play games to stretch your mind such as Sudoku, crossword puzzles, solitaire, or online chess.

Plan for the Future

While it might feel as if this loneliness will last forever, there will come a time when we'll all be back to our usual routines. One way to feel less alone now is to do things that help us focus on the future. Here are some ideas:

• Watch personal development tutorials and TED talks on YouTube.

• Plan a fun event for when you are out of isolation.

• Make a bucket list of things you want to do in your lifetime.

• Make a ‘goals’ list for an area of your life e.g. career or finances.

On-line Dating

On-line dating may seem futile right now, due to the fact that the actual dating-in-person part is not an option, but on the other hand it gives singles a chance to really get to know each another prior to meeting. Some sites are offering cut-price subscription deals to attract new members.

Show compassion

Regardless of our religious beliefs, having compassion for others can increase our sense of common humanity and social connectedness.

Look after yourself

While it's normal to feel afraid and lonely at a time like this, if you find yourself with very poor mental health while isolated, or if you start drinking more than usual, or abusing drugs, you might need to reach out for help. Consider calling a crisis line or an on-line therapy service.

Finally, it’s worth reminding yourself that by practicing social distancing and self-isolation, you’re protecting not only yourself, but also countless others, including individuals at high risk of severe illness, and medical professionals on the front lines. Staying at home, and weathering the loneliness that might accompany it, is an act of selflessness. Stay strong and stay safe. We will get through this.