In reality, it was only the beginning of March.

But changes to our lifestyles are happening at an unprecedented speed these days.

While I'm sure that the current measures in place for social isolation will change, I am confident that self-isolation will remains the key to slowing down the spread of COVID-19.

This brings us to the problem that many people are currently facing: How do we maintain our mental wellness while getting through this stressful period?

It is going to be different for everyone, but here are a few suggestions that can get you started.

A wise friend recently said, "We should all be practising physical distancing while staying socially connected." The trick here is learning how to stay connected in new ways.

It may seem weird the first time you Skype a family member or join in a Zoom session for work, but it doesn't take long to get over the awkwardness. Social media is a useful tool. Facetiming over the phone with loved ones unable to be with you is an option or simply make an old-fashioned phone call to keep in touch.

With the kids at home and working remotely, it is easy to get out of your usual routine.

This can lead to problematic patterns forming with such a sudden change to your everyday life.

It might be fun to spend a day on the couch every now and then, but it can quickly become the norm if you allow it.

You can overcome this by getting up at your usual time, sticking to your meal routines, having a showing and making an effort to get out of your pyjamas.

Schedule times for everyday tasks, create a daily to-do list and set some weekly goals.

This all helps with maintaining focus and motivation.

While we are currently still allowed to venture outside of our homes for daily exercise, this may change at any time.

It is also advised that people over 70 try to stay at home for their own protection. This doesn't mean the end of keeping up healthy exercise habits.

You don't need a home gym to stay fit with bodyweight exercises an excellent alternative.

You can make weights from empty milk bottles filled with water or sand.

There are literally thousands of hours of yoga and exercise routines available online for free or little cost.

Dancing around to your favourite songs in the lounge room is really fun and will get your heart pumping in no time.

Get the kids to join in for a bit of stress release.

Change the way you're are thinking about being isolated into an opportunity to start a new project or finally have the time to get one finished.

Have you ever wanted to learn a new skill or start on a lofty goal?

Maybe you have dreaming of writing a book for years?

Now is the perfect time to start!

There are so many resources available to point you in the right direction, often without the need for buying specialised equipment.

Do you have the expertise in or are passionate about a subject?

Why don't you start a written or video blog, podcast, or Facebook group where you can share your knowledge?

This can give your drive, motivation and purpose, knowing that you may be helping others in our shared isolation experience.

It is worth remembering that we are all in this together and we can all make a difference, even if it just means staying at home to protect others.

If you are experiencing overwhelming feelings of sadness and need to talk to someone, counselling services are still available.

While we can't see people face-to-face, most counsellors and psychologists are moving to phone or online sessions.

There are also free, short-term or emergency services available.

LifeLine 13 11 14; Beyond Blue 1300 224 636; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800