What are the physical effects of confinement and social distancing?

Containment and social distancing measures are crucial to combat the spread of COVID-19. However, if we do not take care of ourselves, these measures could also have "side effects" and negative health consequences in the medium and long term.

Even in times of the COVID-19 epidemic, the majority of deaths worldwide (2 out of 3) are due to chronic, non-contagious diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes. These chronic diseases also make people more vulnerable when they are infected with a coronavirus. These diseases are partly caused by genetic or environmental factors, but mainly by four key health-related behaviours: unbalanced diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, and the lack of exercise.

In societies in crisis, individuals who have lost their jobs, an important source of income, or who have seen their jobs change, are particularly vulnerable to stress and drug abuse.

Several studies have shown that stress and social isolation can have negative effects on these health-related behaviours: eating more unhealthy "comfort foods" (such as sweets or salty snacks), drinking more alcohol, smoking more cigarettes, having stronger cravings, and using illegal drugs. People with eating disorders or addictions are particularly vulnerable but everyone can feel the effects of stress.

In addition, containment and remoteness measures have resulted in the closure of gyms and sports activities disrupting our habits and making regular exercise more difficult.

If we wish to avoid negative consequences on our health in the long term, we must do our best to reduce these health risks and help those in need around us.

What to do?

• Eat a good diet including fruits and vegetables at every meal.
• Avoid snacking between meals
• Try to establish a new exercise program that is possible in this new situation - but don't be overly ambitious and start with a realistic goal (for example, 30 minutes of walking a day); if you haven't exercised for a while, check with your doctor about what type or level of exercise is best for you.
• Avoid daily consumption of alcohol keeping in mind that alcohol has negative effects even in small amounts.
• Trying to reduce smoking and any drug use
• When you have a craving for a specific food, drink, cigarette, or drug, listen to yourself and ask yourself why you want it. If you feel lonely, call a friend or family member. If you are bored, try to think of an activity you've wanted to do for a long time but haven't had time or go for a walk or some exercise.
• Get enough sleep by falling asleep and getting up at regular hours. Avoid looking at screens (television, telephone, computer, etc.) in the two hours before sleep, as they can disrupt your body's natural rhythm. If you have trouble falling asleep, try some relaxation techniques before bedtime.
• Consult a psychologist or a coach, especially if you are considering a career transition.