Feeling cooped up at home - what should I do?

Contact a friend is always the most fun way, but an easy way could be to simply just try to walk outside. It may seem boring but you'll find the fresh air really helps to banish the stale feeling.

When I’m cooped up at home, I look at some me time that could include reading a book, watch a movie, catch up an a TV show, find a recipe to try and make, or spend some quality time with my dog by playing fetch with her toy. And when I’m really just stressed with being cooped in the house, I like to lay on my sofa in front of my fireplace and with the lights dimmed down and quietness, I lay there staring into the fire to reflect on things that may have been bothering me.

I try going for a walk either along the river or to a park. You could try visiting a friend. Sometimes I go to a local pawn shop and browse around.

It can be hard to get out the house but finding a new hobby or hanging out with friends or even making new ones at libraries or clubs. Even going for walks can really make a difference.

Open the windows, look outside, let the fresh air in. If you are up for it and can get out (I know how hard it can be), take a walk, maybe you can order in some good and healthy food and pick out a movie to watch.

This can be really frustrating and make you feel crazy. Here are some possible solutions. Simply go out. I know this is a LOT easier said than done. But forcing yourself to leave can make you feel better. It can be taking a short walk. Make plans with friends. Make plans and hold yourself to it. By involving someone else, you have more of a motivator and a person to hold you responsible in a sense. If you can't seem to go out, try to find something to do in your house. This can be cleaning, trying a new hobby, doing a project you always wanted etc.

Contact someone. Get online. Find anything to distract your mind in a positive manner. Walk to the local store and back.

Acknowledge how it's affecting your mental health and then take some step towards going outside and gradually maintaining your social activities. The more you stay in that bubble the harder it'll be to eventually leave it. Try to call a friend and ask to hang out, take initiative or tell someone how the situation is. There's no shame in asking for a bit help.

Try something you've never experienced before, or take up a new hobby. There are plenty to choose from :)

If you feel this way, maybe try doing things in the exterior, grab some fresh air, get out and go for a walk, or maybe for a run. Just do something you like doing outside :)