Looking after yourself while self-isolating

If you’re reading this article, then we’ll assume that for whatever reason you need to self-isolate. Have no fear – we’ve put together some helpful tips to see you through (and give you something to do when you’re tired of Netflix and social media scrolling!)

Let us know

First things first: please take a moment to let us know that you need to self-isolate by completing the King’s self-isolation reporting form. (It’s quick, we promise!)

Don’t worry; this is kept within King’s and helps us to better understand your situation so we can offer support. Depending on where you are living, someone from your King's residence or the Faculty Wellbeing and Welfare team will reach out to see how you’re doing.

Prep yourself

Next, think about what you will need to see you through the time you’ll be at home. Has it been ages since you did a food shop? If you routinely take prescribed medicines, do you have enough? It might be time for an online order. If you're unsure how to do this, have a read of our guidance on Student Services Online.

Connect with others

It’s normal to feel some anxiety around self-isolating, and especially if you’ve just arrived in the UK. Try to set up a time every day to talk with friends and family (time differences can be tricky!) Even if you have nothing to update, it will help to break up the day.

Remember that you’re not alone in navigating the newness of this term. Many will join welcome events online this year, so why not give one of the following suggestions a try:

• Have a conversation with a KCLSU Positive Peer, who is a current student ready to talk to you about life as a student in London (or anything else on your mind.) KCLSU Positive Peers
• Join one of the 300 student groups (now’s your time to browse through them all!) Many will be hosting online welcome events in the next couple of weeks. Student Groups
• Try a session with ‘Move Your Mind,’ an online physical and mental wellness programme run by King’s Sport (free yoga and journaling sessions? We're in!) Move Your Mind
• Chat with a chaplain. Not particularly religious? Doesn’t matter! They are here for everyone, especially if you’re feeling homesick. Chat with a Chaplain
• Use the Welcome to King’s app for your programme’s induction and events. If you’ll miss the welcome period, don’t worry! Inductions will be recorded and there will still be ways you can connect with your peers. Welcome to King’s app

Be kind to yourself

There’s plenty of information out there about trying new things while you’re self-isolating. But don’t feel pressured to take up a hobby or read that epic novel collecting dust on your shelf if you don’t want to.

It’s more important to look after your wellbeing and mental health, especially now. If it feels like it’s getting to be a bit much and you’d just like to talk to someone, or you’re feeling more down than usual, try one of the options above, reach out to your Faculty Wellbeing and Welfare Advisor to set up a friendly chat, or have a look for who you can speak to out-of-hours: Who to talk to at King’s.

We wish you the very best with your studies this semester and we’ll see you in real life very soon.