Covid-19 Q&A: Isolation advice, based on a real experience

A week before coronavirus sent the entire UK into lockdown, 19 year old Gracie from Cornwall was forced into a 14 day isolation with her family.

On day 13, she shared her experience.

Gracie in her bedroom (a screenshot taken from the video call interview)

Why did you and your family go into isolation?

My dad showed symptoms of Covid-19 after being up-country for work. He came back with a cough and the government said you have to isolate if someone in your household has symptoms, so we did.

How did you feel when you realised you’d have to self-isolate?

At first, it seemed like a joke, but when I realised it was serious, I thought: Oh gosh, I’m going to be so bored for 14 days! I started thinking what to order from Amazon to entertain myself. It’s kind of daunting knowing you have two weeks of staying inside ahead of you.

What have you done during isolation that you may not have done otherwise?

I played piano, which I don’t normally do, as well as running. Usually, I don’t run, but it was the only form of exercise I could do.

What effect has self-isolation had on your mental health?

It varies. Luckily, I get on well with my family, but it’s been a bit boring at times, especially with the nice weather. Nearly all of my friends have been at uni or away for the past three months and now I still can’t see anyone, even though they’re all back in town, which is a bit of a downer. I’ve been keeping my windows open, because the fresh air brings positivity. Sometimes I worry that I haven’t used my time well, but overall it’s been alright.

Gracie, joined by her mum, Sara (middle) and sister, Alice (right)

Do you think people in the UK have been taking the coronavirus crisis seriously enough?

I think some people have, but lots haven’t. I was messaging my friend from Italy and she thinks the UK is not taking it seriously. She said it’s ridiculous and I listened to her, because Italy is ahead of us with the pandemic. You’re allowed out to exercise but some people have been making a day trip out of it, which defeats the object.

What advice would you give to people, now that we’re all in lockdown?

I would say, try keeping some sort of routine. Also, my family have been spending limited time with each other in the day, so in the evenings, when we watch a film or eat dinner together, it doesn’t feel overwhelming. You should have your own thing to do, as well as family time. I’ve taken up some drawing.

Finally, what will you take away from this?

I’m going to be more appreciative of just having freedom and I won’t take shopping with friends or going out for a coffee for granted. It’ll be time to appreciate what I’ve got.