I do not think that anyone would have thought that as a society we would be faced with such a significant pandemic as we are facing with Covid-19. With this pandemic, millions of people have had to change their way of life that is out of the “norm” for what we are used too. For some, putting the breaks on life by not going out as much or even at all can be difficult. We are social beings, and with that, we need to be around others. As a result, we may feel isolated or disconnected from friends, family or work. I myself have had to deal with social distancing myself from family members who do not live with my immediate family. So how can we learn how to cope with this isolation or distancing?
I would recommend that you try to maintain some sort of normalcy as possible. This may include taking time with those you live with ensure there is connection. In today’s world of technology, it has been a blessing and a curse. It is very easy for family to be under the same roof but stop communicating because everyone is either on their phones, tablets or computers. As a family, carve out times throughout the week where devices are put to the side. Spend time as a family playing games, talking, work on a family project or do arts and crafts. In addition, as a family you can possibly go for a walk in your neighborhood or do activities in your yard.
As for maintaining connections with others who do not live with you, the blessing of technology can help you maintain connections with others such as talking on the phone or utilizing some form of face time with loved ones. If you experience increased depression or anxiety during this time, it is important share this those who are close to you. In addition if you have a therapist, it is important that you maintain regularly scheduled therapy sessions either through telehealth services or in person (if you and the therapist is comfortable with this.)