With many people choosing to isolate, self-quarantine or practice social distancing, the idea of staying at home for a while may feel a bit daunting. Many people who find themselves at home for extended periods of time struggle with boredom, loneliness and eventual anxiety.

For those who are choosing or are forced to remain at home, here are some tips to avoid that boredom and loneliness and, perhaps, anxiety:

• Read a favorite book

• Binge watch your favorite television show

• Watch movies, new or classics

• Create your own spa day complete with candles and soothing music

• Give yourself a manicure or pedicure

• Play board games with your family

• Play online games (though perhaps not online gambling if that is a problem for you)

• Make your favorite meal and share it with your family

• Play cards

• Listen to your favorite album or other music

• Exercise at home using online videos

• Practice yoga

• Work crosswords or other mind games

• Work on a puzzle alone or with your family

• Video chat with friends or family

• Write old-fashioned, snail mail letters to family and friends and stamp with self-adhesive postage

• Go on online tours of a museum as several museums are offering such tours

• Plan a romantic, indoor date night with your significant other

• Play 20 Questions

• Give yourself a facial

• Practice deep breathing

• Make a blanket fort with your kids and tell ghost stories

It may be tempting to imbibe more than normal when practicing social distancing, but be wary of drowning your sorrows and anxieties about the world in alcohol or other substances. Doing so could result in problematic substance use and be harmful in the long run.

And remember, just because you are isolating at home does not mean you have to sit around lamenting the state of the world. If you do start to feel anxious, reach out to a trusted mental health professional. Many clinicians are taking telehealth or phone appointments at this time to help you through this crisis. Check with your insurance provider to ensure these services are covered.