Stages Of Self isolation Paranoia

Stages of Isolation

The covid19 outbreak changed life for all of us. We transitioned off the streets, left the shops and began working from home. Planes were grounded, restaurants & stores were closed, and governments ordered their citizens to “stay home”, “self-quarantine” and “social distance” to slow the spread of the virus.  This was very clear.  What was not clear, was the profound impact this would have on mental health.

The massive and sudden severing of personal interactions ushered in significant and intense emotions over the weeks and months that followed. This exhibit is Joao Carlos’ interpretation of the various stages of isolation and their respective emotions.

Week One: Adjustment and anxiety.  A period of adjustment to staying and working at home 24/7. Fear is apparent and uncertainty is abundant both of which lead to increased levels of anxiety.

Week Two:  Boredom and frustration.  As people deal with a totally altered world feelings of hopelessness, loss, frustration and even boredom being to settle in. Will life ever go back to normal?

Week Three & Four: Anger and paranoia. As the curve flattens the reality of a worse-case scenario becomes distant.  People start to question if the pandemic is a hoax, if the measures were too drastic and criticize their political leaders.  People begin to outwardly manifest their anger, demanding their rights and take to the streets to march peaceful or to destroy property.

Week Five: Acceptance and adaptation.  People begin to accept their “new” way of life which now includes masks, hand sanitizer, standing 2 metres apart and excludes large gatherings, hugs and kisses.  Although some may find it easy to manage their emotions and adapt, others may still be quietly suffering under an external image of acceptance.