Self isolation is triggering depression - how do I take control?

[QuentinQuarantino]

Am on Day 6 of 2 week isolation after DP tested positive. We don't live together so he's been isolating at his. My DC have stayed with their dad (usually 50/50).

About 3.5 years ago I had the worst bout of loneliness and depression of my life. When my DC would go to their dad's, I would just sit on the sofa staring blankly into space until it was time to go bed (sometimes would sob for hours just to shake things up a bit). I struggled to even take ddog out for a wee. The smallest, most mundane everyday action felt like I was wading through treacle and slowly drowning.

Long story short, I got through it. I met my wonderful DP, got a great new job and have been mostly well since.

Until now. I'm finding myself slipping back into old thought patterns and sadness. I miss my DC SO much. We're video calling every day and they've come to visit me 3 times (standing at safe distance away on pavement). I miss DP. Miss the affection and touch that I've gotten used to having on a daily basis. Dog is a crap cuddler and whiffs a bit.

Am trying to read, bake etc but in reality I'm just working and then watching movies and eating shite. I just feel so sad and find myself bursting into tears at random moments. Struggling to concentrate on WFH. My house is small so I feel like I'm just existing in one room and moving from my table to my sofa when I clock off.

Any tips on how to snap myself out of it would be very welcome. Or is anyone feeling a similar way?

That's tough, OP (enjoying your name, incidentally!) and I think it must be a pretty common feeling in houses up and down the land whether you're cooped up by yourself or with others. I don't really have any words of wisdom but much sympathy.

Maybe you have to try to force yourself to think of positive aspects. Write yourself a list of good things. I don't know how old your children are but you don't have to have the daily fight of getting them up and out for school, just for instance. You can choose to watch whatever you want without anyone moaning about your choice of film.

Put on some happy music and sing along loudly to it. Follow an online exercise video. Start planning what you'll cook for Christmas. Tiny positive things can make a difference.

I’m not 100% on the rules but can your partner not come live with you or vice versa? Seeing as you are both isolating or is that not allowed incase you don’t have it?

No advice but sympathy. I've just finished 2 weeks self isolation. I do live with my OH but he is out of the house for long hours at work. I felt really fed up and sad and tried to keep busy in the house but it was so hard.

I actually achieved a lot on paper - did some baking, had a sort out, read a book but I didn't enjoy any of it as I felt really down.

I think it helped me just to accept the feelings and not try to fight them or be scared by them.

Thanks all 💐

Rosie no, the rules (afaik) are that you isolate if someone in your support bubble tests positive. DP and I were apart when he developed symptoms. I got sent straight home from work (NHS) and told by my manager to isolate alone for two weeks as it was possible and therefore the safest option.

Am going to have a bubble bath tonight and do a bit of a home facial. Have slept terribly with anxiety nightmares the last three nights which hasn't helped matters.

Just miss actual human contact at this stage.

I really feel for you OP as I’ve been where you are and it’s so tough. There’s a stranger on the internet thinking of you!

Count down the days!! Sounds like you are doing all you can really, thinking of activies and stuff.

Could you do something for the kids for when they return, as a nice surprise? Eg a treasure trail arpund the house, set up their toys, clear out and organise their bedroom?

Failing that im sure people on mumset could keep your spirits up? We could all ask you a random questions to get some conversation going? I will start by asking what the nicest thing is about where you live?