How to manage the stress of confinement, especially when you live alone?

Following the announcement of the President of the Republic concerning new measures aimed at limiting the spread of the coronavirus, the French are led to confine themselves more and more to avoid new contaminations. However, this forced quarantine is not without consequences, especially for the most isolated people.

What do we know about the psychological consequences of confinement among the Chinese?

China was the first country to quarantine its citizens to prevent the epidemic from worsening. Thanks to an online self-questionnaireconducted in 36 provinces among more than 50,000 people, the researchers were able to discover that for 35% of respondents, or nearly a third, the results show moderate psychological stress, and even severe for 5% of them.

This stress would particularly concern women, migrant workers and especially young people aged 18 to 30, or people over 60, especially in the areas most affected by the infection.

How do we explain the stress of confinement?

The stress of confinement can both be linked to the fear of infection itself, but also to the prohibition and the limit of freedom. To this stress common to all, is added the lack of social ties for the most isolated people.

According to the review The Lancet who looked at more than 3,000 articles published on the psychological consequences of confinement (following the SARS, Ebola or influenza A epidemics), the longer the duration of confinement (more than 10 days), the greater the risk of symptoms post-traumatic stress, avoidance behavior or anger are important.

Certain factors also promote stress, such as being pregnant, having children, fearing for the distribution of basic necessities, or not receiving sufficiently clear information.

Can we act to prevent the consequences of confinement stress?

Certain actions can perhaps be put in place now to limit the effects of these stress factors, in particular for the most isolated:

– do not hesitate to call the toll-free number for information on the coronavirus: 0 800 130 000 every day from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

– take news of those who live alone or are the most isolated by calling them regularly, why not by videoconference.

– thank and encourage those who are in confinement to strengthen motivation.

– create support and discussion groups on the virus and the activities that can be done during confinement.

Do not hesitate to talk about your fears and anxieties with your loved ones and to take your mind off things with fun, relaxation or even sporting activities at home.

Finally, do not forget that fear is a contagious feeling, if you feel too sensitive to the most distressing information, do not hesitate to limit your time on social networks or continuous news channels so as not to add from stress to stress.