Ever since students have been practicing self-isolation, have begun to feel symptoms of cabin fever. Cabin fever is defined by Dictionary.com as, “a state characterized by anxiety, restlessness, and boredom, arising from a prolonged stay in a remote or confined place.”
There are ways to alleviate these symptoms from happening, mostly to do with creating a normal routine and staying active.
Make a daily list that includes small and large goals. For example, get a blank piece of paper and write down the homework assignments, study goals, fitness goals or even food goals for the day. Also include small things like changing an outfit or brushing teeth and hair. It can help make it feel more like a normal day.
Another thing to do is to start cleaning. No one probably has that on their mind right now, however, making a clean space provides clearer thoughts and a better workspace to focus on school online.
Students may also be experiencing cabin fever due to the lack of movement throughout the day. The World Health Organization (WHO) is recommending that “people are getting 150 minutes a week of moderately intense physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week while staying at home.”
Staying at home without physical activity can detrimentally affect students’ health. According to the WHO, “Staying at home for prolonged periods of time can pose a significant challenge for remaining physically active”. Athletes or academics, this will affect all types of students if people aren’t staying active.
Loneliness and boredom are other symptoms of cabin fever. Social interactions like playing online video games, video chatting a friend while eating or going on a walk around the neighborhood are all great options while practicing social distancing.
Students should also not forget to mind what they eat. Try to plan out meals. Make sure that the daily intake of vegetables, protein and fruits are being met with the utmost priority for health reasons. Snacking is fine, but try not to overeat. It can cause overeating, stress eating, boredom eating, or worst of all, stomach issues.
Staying on track with school right now is a big adjustment for a lot of students. This is why it is so important to be organized throughout the week. Australian psychologist, Lea Waters, advises that people stick to a routine as much as possible and creating a work station to boost productivity.
Many will notice a difference within the week from implementing these overall tips. Some cabin fever is inevitable, but students can do their best to remain healthy and happy.
