Everyone feels lonely at times. Social distancing and self-quarantine regulations may prevent us from seeing close friends and family members, increasing feelings of loneliness and anxiousness. Experiencing loneliness and being alone, however, are different states of mental and emotional being. If you constantly seek the company of others to avoid spending time alone, reflect on your relationship with yourself. Consult with your therapist about what may be the root of your aversion to being alone. When you have some clarity, look for solitary activities you can enjoy when you allow yourself to be alone.
Get Reacquainted With Yourself
During recovery, your behaviors, habits, and opinions change based on your new outlook on life. Take some time to explore the person you are becoming. What are your interests? How do you like to spend your time? Once you are more familiar with your intentions and goals, you can find activities suited to the new you. When you feel comfortable with yourself, you should be able to access new emotional and spiritual depths. A stronger sense of self can enhance stress-coping skills, bolster interpersonal relationships, and ease in-therapy personal reflection. Just as meeting a new friend can be daunting, reintroducing yourself to yourself might stir some anxiety. Know that your hard work in recovery has made you a more complex and open person that you’ll probably like!
Redecorate Your Space
In warmer climates with walking trails or sidewalks, you may be able to enjoy your own company in an outdoor setting. When the weather is cold or the pathways are closed, however, you might be stuck inside for long blocks of time. Freshen up your space with some new decor like a plant or framed picture. Renovating your favorite room could be a fun solo project to take on during the quarantine period. Maybe you’ll find therapeutic properties in tasks like painting, selecting furniture, or laying wallpaper. Interior design may not be your thing, but the project could be a fun activity to share with a friend or family member. Socialize during the room makeover, and after its completion, take some time for yourself.
Getting to know yourself all over again can be a thought-provoking experience that helps you better appreciate and love yourself. At Avalon Malibu, we want you to be an active participant in your recovery. Our commitment to offering diverse treatment options means that each person can enjoy a unique rehabilitation experience tailored to their individual needs. The dedicated team of mental health professionals at Avalon Malibu can equip you with the right tools to manage stress, anxiety, and loneliness.
To find out how we can help, please call us today at (844) 857-5992.
