As the COVID-19 pandemic restricts people’s movement, domestic habits are being shaken up to stave off boredom and maintain social ties. Canvas8 spoke to 18 people from around the world to understand how they’re spending their time in self-isolation and what new routines they’ve established.

The Coronavirus Diaries is a series of dispatches from Slate highlighting first-hand experiences of how life is changing as a result of the outbreak. In a media climate of fake news and pandemic scaremongering, real experiences are a source of truth that most people can, on some level, relate to.

More and more people are resorting to online dating as a way to feel connected to others while self-isolating at home. To meet demands for more genuine interactions, brands are adapting their services to facilitate digital dates that feel as authentic as the real deal.

Frustrated by social distancing and home quarantine, people are taking satisfaction in things that require decisive action. Dating app Flutter is meeting this demand with a built-in time limit for talking to potential matches, helping people regain a sense of control at a time of uncertainty.