Thread by @GailSimone

Okay, a lot of us freelancers have joked about it, but the truth is many of us DO work in relative self-isolation for months at a time.

This quarantine may be longer than expected. My suggestion is, even as you may be anxious for damn good reason, give yourself morale breaks. 1/

Yes, make sure you have your physical needs covered as best you can.

But it’s important to do things that bring calmness and joy. 24 hours a day of anxiety isn’t helpful and makes things worse.

Relief from that mindset is an actual necessity. 3/

It’s okay to do things that take your mind off anxiety.

I recommend starting a book series, reading favorite comics, playing video games (especially rpgs, that focus on advancement and story development), puzzles and music.

A few hours of pleasure is a real health boost.

And I wouldn’t feel bad about spending a bit of money on something that works as health care for the soul. If a $40 rpg makes isolation and anxiety better, that is money well spent.

A LOT of authors and publishers are putting things online for free. They want you well. 5/

Social interaction doesn’t have to be offline, either. Lots of people are playing online games together, including rpgs. If you know of one, please list it here (I plan to run a silly one over the weekend, if I can). 6/

In a crisis like this, doing what brings us joy (if it doesn’t hurt anyone else), is fighting back. Especially if you can include others, either around you or on social media.

I am proud to see so many media creators giving stuff away. Take advantage! 7/

Make a plan for things to do that you haven’t given yourself time to do in the past, maybe.

Think of things that really engage your mind and imagination.

You’ll be glad. It will make a difference. 8/

You’re important and we are more than just consumers.

Do what helps you put anxiety aside, give yourself a time-out. It’s 100% allowed, I checked.

And be there for others, if you can!

We can do this. :)

End/