Human beings are social creatures, and that makes social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic incredibly difficult. Many Americans have shelter-in-place orders, and even when people are out and about, they are encouraged to stay six feet away from others to prevent the spread of the virus. While social distancing is critical, it’s also hard on your mental health. You might feel anxious, concerned, lonely, bored, and even angry. The lack of connection could also cause symptoms of depression. Fortunately, you can combat these negative feelings by staying connected with loved ones while social distancing. Here are some tips to help you stay connected while social distancing to give you a mental health boost.
Host Online Watch Parties
Watch movies or television shows with your loved ones by hosting online watch parties. A Netflix Party is the easiest way to do this. You just need to install the Netflix Party Google Chrome extension. Then pick something to watch and send an invite through the extension to your friends or family members. All members of the party can pause or start the video, so everyone watches it at the same time, and you can use the chat feature to talk about what you’re watching.
Host Virtual Events
You can follow social distancing guidelines while connecting with your friends by hosting virtual events. First, pick a theme. The theme can be anything you want, from a virtual happy hour to reviewing the latest movie you saw on early release. Next, select a video chat platform to use. You can use Google Hangouts, Skype, Zoom, or another platform. Then set your time and date and invite your friends. Once everyone logs in, the event can begin. This is sure to give your mental health a boost during the coronavirus pandemic.
Play Games With Your Loved Ones
Are you a gamer? If so, it’s easy to stay connected with social distancing. Log into your favorite multiplayer online game and invite your friends to join. You can play a casual title such as Words with Friends or fire up the Xbox for Gears 5 or another title. You can talk to your friends while playing the game, and it will feel like they are in the house with you, even though you are still following the coronavirus social distancing guidelines.
If you prefer old-school board games, you can still play with your friends. Set up the board game, and then you can play over video chat. It’s amazing how helpful technology can be when connecting with family and friends during the coronavirus pandemic.
Try Some Low-tech Ways to Connect
You can stay connected while social distancing with some low-tech methods, as well. You don’t need an internet connection to write letters to your loved ones. Have them do the same. Then, when you go to the mailbox, you will have a special greeting from the people you love. These greetings are always welcome, but at times of social isolation, they will give your mental health a boost.
Safeguard Your Mental Health During the Coronavirus Pandemic
It’s normal to feel out of sorts right now. Life as you know it has changed drastically, and that can leave you feeling lonely and depressed. Fortunately, you can still connect with the people you love. These tips will help you manage the emotional stress of the pandemic.
We know these are difficult times, and at Freeway Insurance our priority is that you stay safe and healthy, that’s why we have healthcare options like our telemedicine plans. For an affordable rate, you can get the coverage and care you need from the comfort of your own home. Call us today!
