The Impact of Social Distance

The words social distance have taken on a whole new meaning since February of this year. Previous to 2020, as a clinician I would look at social distance as a negative symptom of depression.

In this COVID-19 world, social distance takes on a whole new meaning. It’s a survival tactic; a strategy to keep yourself and loved ones safe. The outcome of social distancing can result in the same negative outcomes though. I know personally, isolative feelings have been hard to counteract during these times. Social distancing has prevented us from celebrating birthdays, hugging loved ones, and opening our houses up to visitors without undue anxiety sneaking in.

These shifts are huge. Humans are social creatures. We don’t have sharp teeth or thick skin. We are meant to live in herds. Take away access to the herd (due to a pandemic) and you are left with an unnatural living condition.

Staying connected is so important. Finding new ways to adapt in this new world is pivotal to finding contentment. We can not wait until the pandemic is over to make these changes. Zoom meetings are a great way to stay connected. There are a number of different game apps that can be used virtually like Hangouts or Jackbox Games. Heck, it’s summer! Get out on that patio or park and see someone face to face-while practicing social distancing, of course.

If you are having a hard time finding connection, due to not going to work or school, know that you are not alone. There are a huge number of people struggling to connect. I say, try to mix things up. NAMI has a number of virtual social meetup groups going. There are some non-therapeutic meetup groups going virtually as well. If you struggle with new social situations or anxiety, know that we all have something to relate to in this day in age, so you have a talking point. Also, you have freedom to leave at any point. Dare yourself to try something new, and if it doesn’t feel more comfortable after 3 times you can stop going. Feel free to check in with a therapist about ongoing anxiety concerns as well!