10 Tips To Maintain Social Comfort While Social Distancing

I bet you’re having a tough time with this socially distanced communication. You’re not alone. I’m hearing that many of you feel lonely. This is completely understandable. We’ve had to socially distance ourselves for months.  With the distance apart, we are missing touch and connection which is a huge component of a positive lasting relationship.

While we wait for a sense of normalcy, I’d like to help. Here are some ways to feel connected to others and follow the guidelines for social distancing.

1. Use socially distanced and CDC approved ways of connecting in person, such as playing tennis, sitting apart in the outdoors, walking the trails outside, etc.
2. Use touch alternatives such as wearing a favorite outfit, soft bedding, pillows, etc. when missing out on touch.
3. Use a pet to connect with.
4. Give yourself a hand, arm, leg massage using your favorite lotion.
5. Use the opposite action technique to reduce negative thoughts. For example,  the opposite action of “nobody wants to spend time with me” is reaching out to send a message to a friend.
6. Do something for others to help them and feel connected such as a puzzle for them to work on, a note that lets them know you’re thinking about them, a favorite food item of theirs, etc.
7. Use the 5 senses technique to focus on social memories that you have had or focus on what you envision once you’ll get face to face time together.
8. Use a talk or text line such as NAMI’s Warm Line ( Call 800-950-NAMI or text NAMI to 741741) to talk with someone about how you’re struggling.
9. Try utilizing other coping skills such as taking a walk, exercising, gardening, cleaning, etc. to focus your attention on.
10. Play online games or have planned weekly discussions so you have something to do together and something to look forward to.

Anxiety and depression, for many, are at an all time high due to feeling separated and grieving a sense of normalcy.  If you’re having trouble and would like additional individual resources, please reach out to a mental health professional to discuss options that would work best for your individual needs. 

Stay Well, 

Author

Megan Bowling, M.A., LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has been in the mental health field for more than ten years and is passionate to share mental health wellness strategies. ​

*Follow your local regulations and the CDC’s guidelines for social distancing to reduce the spread