Feeling cooped up at home - what should I do?
Rainbowaftertherain
on
Oct 24, 2018
...read more
In my personal experience, it is good to try and get out as much as possible, even if it is just sitting outside your house. The fresh air will help you feel better than sitting inside all day long. If you cannot get outside, i recommend keeping yourself busy. Be it reading a book or watching movie, keeping your mind occupied is a good way to help not feel like you're stuck inside. Cooking or baking is also a good way to make use of your time, plus the smell of good food instantly puts me in a good mood and i feel accomplished.
Anonymous
on
Dec 2, 2018
...read more
When I feel cooped up at home I look for exercise videos on YouTube, or I rearrange my furniture to create a new space! I find that getting all the jitters out with exercise can really help with that antsy feeling that you get from being indoors for so long.
Sometimes I do housework too -- things like vacuuming. For me it's all about using that energy that I'd normally use when I'm out and about!
If none of those things are an option, I put on soft soothing music and lose myself in a book -- that way I'm visiting a new world without leaving my house.
Anonymous
on
Dec 23, 2018
...read more
Get out. Go for a walk, visit someone, go to a shop, clear your mind, listen to some music. It's as simple as that - not easy, but simple.
I get that it may be difficult to get out due to many reasons such as responsibilities, but there's always a way to fit in time for yourself. 'If there's a will there's a way' as they say. Even if this isn't possible everyday, schedule time for yourself to get out to feel not so cooped up. And if you can just get out, do it! Force yourself to get comfortable with uncomfortable.
Anonymous
on
Feb 8, 2019
...read more
If you are feeling cooped up at home your body and mind is possibly telling you that you need a break from that environment, this could be through a short break, holiday or something as simple as a walk to clear your head. I know that when I start to feel cooped up at home I need to get out and away from that overly familiar situation. You could arrange to meet up with a friend, take a dog out for a walk, wander through the woods, or open spaces, take a book and go read away from home. There are many things you could do that would get you out of the house
Anonymous
on
May 24, 2019
...read more
A couple of tricks I do when I start feeling like this is going for a walk outside, I know it sounds so basic but fresh air, sun on your face and lungs full of air does wonders for your mindset. Also, have a cup of tea or hot drink that you like and read a book for 15 minutes or so to exercise your mind. Catching up with friends for coffee or going for a drive is a nice way to get out of the house for a while. Maybe try something new? What about painting or drawing, reading a new book? Taking up a new hobby!
StarieDiamond
on
Jul 10, 2019
...read more
Greet your neighbors. Go outside and enjoy things with your close friends. Interact with nature. Have a picnic. Talk and laugh while you're enjoying the sunset. Have some honest, serious talk.
They may seem like something that you can do alone. But doing it with people may give you different vibe, experiences, and feelings.
Or if you want to do things alone anyway, just take a breather from your usual daily schedules. Go outside. Buy some ice cream or food that you like. Go to a library. Go to a festival. Go to the aquarium. Or the park. Simply change one or two things.
incredibleFaith4901
on
Jul 26, 2019
...read more
One nice thing to do for yourself might be to get some fresh air and go for a walk, even a short one around the block. You may find once you're out you stay out a little or a lot longer and feel more like part of the world and more positive. You can breathe deeply and note things around you. Let your observations blow around you, just see them as they are, with no thoughts or judgments that have to accompany them, although that may happen and that's fine. You can enjoy this jaunt alone or go meet someone you know. You can strike up a conversation with a total stranger in a safe, public place if they are receptive and you feel like it. If you like sports, you can arrange to do something alone, yet with others, like swimming, or decide to learn a sport you've never tried, in whatever season. It's great to get outside to get some perspective on life. You will find that just doing that, even if you don't do much or talk to anyone, makes you feel better. Observe trees, flowers, people…take your camera and photograph what interests you, or a sketchbook and doodle or draw, or a notebook or pad you can write something in, if you feel like sitting still. You can even do some shopping you need to do at the end if you'd like. It's all good: You got outside!
Kokobean1850
on
Aug 23, 2019
...read more
Get outside! Go for a walk outside, or just spend a bit of time in your backyard or on your porch. If you have dogs, walk them! If you have to go shopping, tackle that! Especially if it's a beautiful day outside. If you're sporty, go out and play tennis, volleyball, baseball, hike, kayaking, etc. Whatever floats your boat.
Anonymous
on
Oct 9, 2019
...read more
I can understand that sometimes we can all feel cooped up at home, but you always have the choice to truly engage yourself in several things! If I may speak from experience, I always watch tons of films and sometimes wind up some super hilarious videos! I blare music in my room and really lose myself, just dancing around and lip syncing; and I don’t even have to bother about anyone ever watching me. If this ever feels too simple or uninteresting, I also recommend something that I love to do - sitting outside in my balcony or porch and just people watching, or reading, or just really taking in that breath of fresh air! It truly is therapeutic, if you think about it! If you have pets, you can always interact with them; and if you have any siblings, you can always irritate them, hahahaha! I personally believe “home is where the heart is†and your heart shouldn’t ever make you feel confined within anything. I know it’s much easier said than done, but sometimes just do what you feel like and what your heart tells you! Cherish yourself! 💖
Anonymous
on
Oct 25, 2019
...read more
Hello. Are you cooped up at home by choice or are there specific reasons. If it's by choice, I urge you to try and get out of the house at least once a day. This could be to just go for a walk, go to a store, or even just sit outside in the sun for a short period of time. If you are cooped up at home for reasons that keep you there, I urge you to make sure you have some sort of schedule you keep for yourself. Having routine is key for your mental well-being. Also, make sure you have a support system around you to help as well.
Anonymous
on
Dec 11, 2019
...read more
When feeling cooped up at home sometimes it is best to go out and do something which will clear your mind and make you feel free maybe something such as going for a walk in your near by woods or nature reserve. Going outside is good for your brain and for your health so it should make you feel better afterwards too. Nature is something many people use to clear they minds and often combining it with another way to relieve worry such as art and meditation are also great ways to feel less cooped up and happy.
supportiveDreamer61
on
Dec 14, 2019
...read more
Go for a walk. Go to a coffee shop. Go to a park. Visit a neighbor. Walk around a store. See a movie. Volunteer. Spend time outdoors. Go to a library. Go to the mall. Visit a pet store. Visit a family member. Go to the gym. Explore somewhere new. Go on a drive. Go on a bike ride. Go out for ice cream. Take your pet for a walk. Go out in your backyard. Visit an animal shelter. Go out for a slice of pizza or appetizer. Get your nails done. Go to a playground. Visit a body of water.
KiaraBowie19
on
Jan 10, 2020
...read more
If you're feeling cooped up at home and it isn't for medical reasons, there is nothing stopping you from taking a walk around the block. If you can't leave the house in your body then you can try to in spirit- through meditation. Imagine yourself somewhere- whether that be on a beach, in luscious green fields or a place which makes you feel safe...imagine shutting your concerns into a box. You walk away from it and head towards a loved one- someone who you feel safe with and that distract you from your worries. Think of their qualities- what is stopping you from being like them?
CalmCourage
on
Mar 21, 2020
...read more
Hey there, I get how you mean... we are going through a weird time at the moment that's for sure. I think exersising, eating well and learning something you have always wanted to but never had time could be somethings to think about. It's hard not to see our friends and go out and do things for sure but we can also see it as an opertunity to do some good or learn a skill, as well as learning how to deal with our minds. I hope these suggestions help and would love to hear what you make of them! Lots of love to you all!
yourfriendchica
on
Apr 8, 2020
...read more
Try taking a walk! It’s always good to exercise our brain and body, one way this could happen is by going on a walk while listening to music. After the walk, write down 5 things you saw, 4 things you heard, 3 things you smelled, 2 things you touched, 1 thing you want to see more of. Another option is to write snail mail to people that have made an impact on you. Vulnerability is a great strength that when shown, can empower other people to share their experiences. Be vulnerable in these letters, even if you’re not comfortable sending them.
Anonymous
on
May 13, 2020
...read more
Make the best of the bad situation! Think about all the things you haven't done because you did't have time - make a list and do them! Keep busy, this list could range from daily work out, to learning how to cook or bake, or watch the tv series you wanted to start but didn't have time. If you wanted to you could learn a new language, or master a new skill, this is your time to focus on you, with minimal distractions. Enjoy a more flexible schedule and continue to grow as the person you want to be and are! :))
BlissfulEars1022
on
May 28, 2020
...read more
take a moment for self reflection... what are you most proud of in yourself? write yourself a note saying congrats on your accomplishment...be silly, be honest, and most of all be friendly to yourself. If you are able to be friendly with yourself and speak to yourself in a positive way, this action will follow you to other aspects of your life. this ripple effect is contagious, try it one day at a time, or even one hour a day... start by feeling good that you got out of bed, wiggle your toes, stretch your back the ablility to self care will do wonders when you are feeling stuck in a coop!!
blitheComfort6759
on
May 30, 2020
...read more
There are lots of things you could do you could complete a puzzle, take on a Rubik's Cube, crossword puzzle, You could start a journal or blog Oh, you could write you can learn how to write poetry, watch long movies, learn a new language, meditate, look at pictures of puppies, face mask Lush self care, play actual letters to family and friends, Play a board game, put on a soap opera, Clean your room or around the house, try on clothes, have a zoom meeting / party baked goodies read New Yorker issues piled on your desk + newspapers knit or crochet or learn how to meet new friends online look at yourself in the mirror and attempt to do a self portrait of yourself going to a coloring book take time to reflect on yourself tried to write a short story or get started reading a novel bits of things around your house do origami if you know how to do or learn how to learn to braid do makeup interview with grandparents over the phone go through your camera roll pick your favorite photos from the past year make a photo book going to health kick and learn how to cook new recipes create a Google document that shows or movies you're watching his share of my own family and friends make a list of things that you are grateful for, if you're old enough to drink your alcoholic drink then have your own wine tasting session , play Pictionary, indoor scavenger hunt, or dye your hair a new color.
friendlySunflower228
on
Jun 10, 2020
...read more
Sometimes I find it helpful to make a list. It's helpful to write it down so I can have it to remind me later and refer to it again and again. It's helpful to include things on your list that you are able to do and can achieve with what you already have. Things to include in your list are things you usually do at home in your free time. Things you haven't done before but are willing to try. Things you can do with a family member. Make a list and pick two or three to do each day.
Misskhan01
on
Jun 11, 2020
...read more
Self Care
Take a bath: enjoy a long, relaxing bath and put on some music.
Facial: put on your clay face mask, lie down, and instantly create your own at home spa.
Exercise: there are plenty of at home exercises available from beach body to youtube videos.
Mediate/Yoga: isolation is a good time for self reflection by practicing meditation. It is also a great way to calm any nerves you may feel.
Go for a walk: getting outside and getting a change of scenery can help you not feel so cooped up.
Hobbies
Play an instrument: whether it is an instrument you already know how to play or one you want to learn, now is a great time to focus on your craft.
Be an artist: whether it’s drawing, painting, or sculpting, now is a great time to let your artistic side out. Creating art is also known to be therapeutic.
Knit/Sew/Crochet: create some goodies for your loved ones or yourself!
Cooking/baking: try some new recipes and save your leftovers as meal preps. As long as you’re not leaving your house, you ought to at least be eating delicious foods.
Writing: write a short story, start a novel, write a poem, start a blog, or just journal your own inner feelings and thoughts.
Read: Read, read, read! Reading books is a great way to keep your mind occupied and stimulated simultaneously! It’s a chance to catch up on reading.
Talk to an expert therapist
A very good listener who provides thoughtful guidance and understanding.
Reviewed Jan 14, 2025
Talk to Alisha NowMy OCD doesn't seem to fit the stereotypes. Are there different types of OCD?
108 Answers
What is the difference between Perfectionism and OCD?
92 Answers
Can OCD tendencies naturally decrease with age?
62 Answers
What does it feel like to have OCD?
8 Answers
How can I tell people that OCD is a real condition, not a synonym for liking things to be neat?
8 Answers
I have a lot of OCD like symptoms, but they are not all intense like other people do. Could I still have the disorder?
4 Answers