PROCESS

Our worlds have been turned upside down and our normal routines with it.

Which got me thinking… what is the new normal for people locked up safely at home? With the clubs, restaurants, and shops closed, what are we doing with all of this newfound time? To find out, I turned to Google Trends. Using search data, Google Trends can tell us which queries have increased and decreased throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

track how bored people are daily?
at what time are people doing hobbies?
when did people start doing those things?
how is this related to how people are feeling?
when bored do this ...

Data of Google Trends

When we are struggling with anxiety and
worry, we can lose touch with things that
used to give us pleasure. Plan to do some
activities each day that is pleasurable
and make you feel joyful. For example,
reading a good book, watching a comedy,
dancing or singing to your favorite songs,
taking a relaxing bath, or eating your
favorite food.

We feel good when we have achieved or
accomplished something, so it’s helpful to
include activities each day that give you a
sense of achievement. For example, doing
some housework, decorating, gardening, a
work task, cooking a new recipe, completing
an exercise routine, or completing ‘life
admin’ such as paying a bill.

We are social animals, so we need and naturally crave closeness and connection with other people. With the current health crisis many of us may be physically isolated or distant from others, so it’s important that we consider creative ways to connect in order that we don’t become socially isolated and lonely. How can you continue to connect with family and friends and have social time in a virtual way? Perhaps using social media, phone and video calls you could set up shared online activities e.g. a virtual book or film club. You could also explore local online neighbourhood groups, and see if there are ways to be involved in helping your local community.