Being in quarantine poses a number of challenges for many of us. Guest blogger Jennifer Scott provides guidance for overcoming these challenges:

In these difficult times brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, people have had to make hard decisions and choices — sometimes not of their own volition. Each challenge has been new and more difficult, but there are always positive ways to look at your current situation. Navigating the pandemic is definitely a challenge, and doubly so for people with diabetes, but it’s possible to overcome the stress brought on by the coronavirus.

Let’s look at some of those difficult challenges and see how to put a positive spin on them.

What about my job?

In March and April 2020, more than 22 million jobs were eliminated due to the pandemic, and by August, the US had only regained 42 percent of those lost. While that number continues to rise and we continue to see improvements in unemployment numbers, the ramifications of the job market are far-reaching. Families are trying to make ends meet, and trying to find a job is a bleak landscape.

Working from home comes with its own challenges. More distractions, fewer social interactions, and lack of scenery change from home-to-office can all present as detriments to the quality of your work. However, there is hope. Jobs with organizations like Instacart have skyrocketed, and in fact, if you’re looking for a job, you’re not the only one. One study found that 64 percent of American workers are looking for new employment.

What about my kids?

Families with school-aged children have been impacted by the coronavirus especially hard. Even for those fortunate enough to be able to work from home, schedules are difficult to navigate, and having your child at home isn’t exactly the distraction-free environment you may need to do your job.

The silver lining with this challenge that some have found is this: Even though the logistics are difficult, keeping your child home during this time is keeping them safe. Not only that, but you are spending more time with your child and learning their habits — which will help you learn who they are as a person, and who they will become. There are plenty of resources to help you make sure your child has everything they need to do school remotely, as well, including both in-person and virtual-learning checklists.

What about my body?

One of the common complaints that has arisen out of the pandemic is people’s ability to lose — or even simply maintain — weight during this difficult time. People are more susceptible than ever to depression during the pandemic — the stress of the news, of worrying about loved ones, and about job situations definitely takes a toll. Depression, in turn, can lead to weight gain and difficulty shedding the pounds.

There are plenty of things you can do to lose weight, including finding healthier snack alternatives like popcorn and reimagining your exercise routine. If you find yourself in a rut, try different activities, like yoga, cycling, or simply taking a walk every day.

You’re not alone

For more uplifting and informational content, visit Libby Rome’s website — a certified nutritionist and traveler who is a master of navigating the world with Type 1 Diabetes. Check it out!