As of Thursday, anyone allowed to enter Taiwan must self-quarantine for 14 days. This prolonged isolation has caused discomfort for some, but quarantined residents of the southern city of Kaohsiung, at least, have access to professional help.

The city of Kaohsiung wants its quarantined residents to know that they aren’t alone. The city has set up a team of counsellors to help those subject to COVID-19 quarantines get through what for many is an ordeal.

The two weeks’ quarantine period mandated for those coming into Taiwan and those who’ve come in contact with COVID-19 patients is the best way to keep the disease from spreading. But two weeks stuck indoors with no social contact can take its toll on mental health.

44% of those who’ve responded to counsellors’ phone calls in Kaohsiung say they feel stress. Others report sleep loss, irritability, and even panic.

The city is advising those in quarantine to take advantage of the new counselling service to better cope with their 14 days of isolation.