A JCU professor of psychology has reassured residents that isolation can be easily managed

Communication and routine will be vital for people to deal with self-imposed quarantine for two weeks, a James Cook University psychology professor said.

JCU associate professor of psychology Dr Wendy Li says routine and communication are keys to managing self-imposed isolation.

Communication and routine will be vital for helping people deal with self-isolation, a James Cook University psychology professor said.

“A lot of Australians have never experienced something like this before, so there will be a lot of anxiety,” JCU associate professor of psychology Wendy Li said.

“It will be important for people to keep up their normal routine as much as possible, and working from home will help.”

Prof Li said communication technology such as Skype and would ease the isolation.

“Talking to people is so important, and with video technology there is that capability to see people and feel that they’re with you,” she said.

“There are simple ways to stay relaxed as well; to reduce anxiety I would recommend deep breathing, and doing some deep breathing half an hour each morning and in the afternoon can help. “For many people gardening will be part of their routines.

“It can be difficult to calm our minds down, but we need to focus on the positive side of self isolation – that we’re making a contribution to reduce the spread of coronavirus.”

Originally published as A JCU professor of psychology has reassured residents that isolation can be easily managed