Skip navigation
The Family Lockdown Guide
Article

The Family Lockdown Guide

How to emotionally prepare for coronavirus quarantine.

The Guardian, 2020

Read offline

auto-generated audio
auto-generated audio

Editorial Rating

7

Qualities

  • Applicable
  • Concrete Examples
  • Engaging

Recommendation

The coronavirus pandemic and government-mandated mitigation measures are confining millions of people to their homes. How can you and your family make the best out of this period of isolation? The Guardian has consulted with psychologists, and spoken to a quarantined school principal and a family of five in an Italian COVID-19 red zone to come up with some best practices. If you find yourself in a similar position, you will want to take their recommendations to heart.

Summary

As individuals and families are confined to their homes as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, their mental health may suffer.

As the coronavirus pandemic unfolds, in many territories individuals in contact with an infected person are self-isolating for a 14-day period. Moreover, in countries where governments shut down public schools, many families find themselves in the unprecedented position of staying together under one roof for long periods. Living without the usual daily routine while confined in their homes can trigger a number of mental health problems, especially for those already predisposed to them. Problems may include anxiety, extreme frustration ...

About the Author

Celina Ribeiro is a freelance journalist based in Sydney. The Guardian is a major daily newspaper based in the UK.