Overcoming Loneliness During Social Distancing

In order to protect ourselves and others from contracting and/or spreading COVID-19 we are social distancing, and this is causing many people to be experiencing loneliness. The thing is, we are still able to socialize through calling each other, video conferencing, texting, emailing and so on, but if we are outside and may be around others, we need to keep six feet of distance between us.

Here are some things you can do to overcome loneliness:

• Contact people you would like to connect with via Skype, zoom, google hangouts, or use Facebook video chat. There are several online video calling portals to choose from.

  •  You can also use apps such as Marco Polo, Snap Chat, or WhatsApp.

  • If you don’t want to get ready or if you feel like you don’t look suitable enough to have face time with others, then use your cell phone to text or call someone, and those who still have a landline, you can use that phone too.

• Send out an email or personal message through social media channels to check in on the people in your life to let them know you care or to start a conversation.

•  Explore the online games available for you to play with friends.

•  If you are healthy and can protect yourself, volunteer:

  • See if anyone is unable to leave the house and do their grocery shopping for them.

  • Create care packages for the elderly, families or individuals in need.

  • Ask people if there is anything you can do to help.

•  Cherish your time alone.

  • Do some self-reflecting

  • Get started on that to-do list you’ve been procrastinating on

  • Create art

  • Read

  • Rest

• Exercise

  • Physical activity releases endorphins to help relieve pain and stress. Regular exercising raises serotonin levels in your brain boosting your mood and overall sense of well-being. If you're not sick and are able, go outside to get some fresh air and sunlight to get vitamin D as that will help your mood too. But keep in mind if you go outside to keep 6 feel of distance between you and others.

All of us need to find what works for us to bring about joy in our life during this time and after the quarantine. We can do this.