Social distancing and mental wellness

As the Coronavirus pandemic continues to change our social landscape, I wanted to write about ways we can follow health experts to keep ourselves and communities safe, while making sure we are looking out for our mental well-being. I hope you all are practicing social distancing, in any way you possibly can. Social distancing not only reduces your risk of contracting the virus, but it also reduces the risk of you spreading the virus to people who are immunocompromised. With social distancing, however, can come feelings of isolation, loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Especially for those who are predisposed to anxiety and depression or other mental health issues, it is so important to make sure you are following best health practices, while taking care of your mental well-being. Here are some ways you can do exactly that!

1. Get out in nature

The novel Coronavirus has led to a complete shut down of many towns, some places closing all businesses that are not essential. This is to encourage residents to stay home as often as possible and only go out for essential needs, such as groceries or pharmacies. However, if your neighborhood allows for this, you can always take a step outside for fresh air or a brisk walk. Now that spring time is officially here in the US, it’s a great opportunity to make sure you are getting out of the house (as long as it is safe for you to do so, and you are not sick). Just make sure to maintain a physical distance of 6 feet from others!

2. Virtual friend hangouts

We are so lucky to live in a time where technology keeps us socially connected more than ever. The other day I had a video chat with a group of friends, and I instantly felt more energized and connected being able to socialize. There are tons of platforms to use including FaceTime, Facebook messenger, or Zoom.

3. Learn a new language or pick up a new hobby

Have you been wanting to learn a new language and been putting it off? I know so many people who use DuoLingo but get so busy with other things that they stop using it (myself included). Being at home more means more time to focus on activities or tasks you may have put off in the past. Some fun indoor activities can include art/drawing, knitting, musical instruments, and even video games.

4. Keep a routine

As we start to adjust to this new normal of working from home, and being at home more than ever, it will be easy to slip out of routines and not put as much effort in taking care of ourselves or our personal space. While it might feel easier, I promise you will actually feel a lot better if you keep a simple routine each day – change into work clothes/day clothes, (even if you aren’t going out), do some exercises at home, eat a balanced healthy breakfast each morning, and maybe even throw some yoga stretches in there to get your blood flowing.

5. Reach out to loved ones

This is a hard time for all of us, but it’s something we are all going through together. It won’t be easy, and for those who are predisposed to depression and anxiety this may be a very challenging time. In social distancing or quarantine, do make sure you reach out to loved ones, and let them know if you are struggling. You don’t have to go through this change alone.

How are you dealing with social distancing in the time of the Coronavirus? What have been your favorite activities to do at home? Share in the comments below!