Taking in consideration the fact that the best way in which we can contain and defeat the COVID-19 pandemic is to stay home, many people have started to experience cabin fever. 

But what is this phenomenon?

Cabin fever1 is a popular term for a relatively common reaction to being isolated in a building for a period of time. Some experts believe that cabin fever is a sort of syndrome, while others feel that it is linked to such disorders as seasonal affective disorder and claustrophobia. Cabin fever2 is ultimately rooted in intense isolation, which may reach the level of a specific phobia. 

There are many symptoms which can indicate cabin fever, however not everyone suffering from cabin fever will experience exactly the same symptoms. The most common symptoms include:

• Restlessness
• Lethargy
• Sadness or depression
• Trouble concentrating
• Lack of patience
• Feeling intensely irritable or restless 
• Food cravings
• Decreased motivation
• Social Isolation
• Difficulty waking
• Frequent napping
• Hopelessness
• Changes in weight
• Inability to cope with stress

If you are experiencing cabin fever as a result of social distancing or self-quarantine in the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, you may be feeling additional stress beyond that which stems from simply being isolated. There are ways to combat the anxiety you may be feeling. 

• Get Out of the House:  If  you are able to go outside, even for a short time, take advantage of that opportunity. Exposure to daylight can help regulate the body's natural cycles, and exercise releases endorphins, creating a natural high. Even a quick stroll can help you feel better quickly. If you are not able to leave the house at all, get close to a window and start moving around.

• Maintain Normal Eating Patterns: For many of us, a day stuck at home is an excuse to overindulge in junk food. Others skip meals altogether. However, eating right can increase our energy levels and motivation. You may feel less hungry if you are getting less exercise, but monitor your eating habits to ensure that you maintain the proper balance of nutrition. Limit high-sugar, high-fat snacks and drink plenty of water.

• Set Goals: When you are stuck in the house, you may be more likely to while away the time doing nothing of importance. Set daily and weekly goals, and track your progress toward completion. Make sure that your goals are reasonable, and reward yourself for meeting each milestone.

• Use Your Brain: Although TV is a distraction, it is also relatively mindless. Work crossword puzzles, read books or play board games. Stimulating your mind can help keep you moving forward and reduce feelings of isolation and helplessness

• Exercise: Even if you cannot leave the house, find a way to stay physically active while indoors. Regular physical activity can help burn off any extra energy you have from being cooped up indoors. Indoor exercise ideas include workout videos, bodyweight workouts, and online workout routines.

If you feel like you are losing your mind, like isolation and loneliness are devouring your sanity, remember that we are all in the same situation, but only by staying home we can stop this pandemic. Hence, my advice for you is to stay at home, take care of yourself and your loved ones and be hopeful, because everything can be solved if we have hope!

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