Stay Connected While Staying Away!

Now that social distancing is in full effect due to COVID-19, we’ve all had to become even more aware and alert of the six-foot rule, And in instances where people are infected, isolation have become the new normal. In a further effort to slow the spread of coronavirus the state has implemented stay at home orders & a number of other rules.This is a difficult time for many of us as social beings to control ourselves from stepping out of our homes. But fortunately or unfortunately this is the need of the hour.

Managing relationships and maintaining connection while social distancing during the time of uncertainty can surely help and we can maintain some control over our lives.

We are in a generation that is fortunate enough to access internet and advancement in technology that we can very well stay connected with our friends and family through social media and communications apps. Checking in regularly with friends and family through video calls , messaging and social media apps have been an advantage.

People that could really benefit from regular check-ins and video chats right now are the elderly and children. Elderly may have fears and might need some help, Just by asking how are you feeling today or is there anything i can help you with?, can make them feel good.On the other side Children who need to be given appropriate information as they might develop anxieties.We should support them and help them stay connected.

Here are some ways that can help:

• Discover unique ways to stay connected and engaged, Create fun and new ideas while interacting.Play antakshari or dumb charades with friends or family on facetime.

• Connect on a deeper level, Spend time with them, have dinner or groove to a dance number in a virtual setting, or if you can only send a mail or message them.

• Communicate to ease stress and anxiety.

This is a time of fear and stress ,we have to realize that people who didn’t have mental health issues may start having mental health issues and it may become greater. No one should struggle alone and therefore keep in touch.

• Instead of thinking negatively cherish this time and take opportunity to spend it with those who matter.

• Talk to those with whom you had not interacted in a while due to your busy schedule or monotonous routine life, maybe an old friend or a relative. Check on them too.

• Video calls, just calls, messages, mails or social media like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp or snapchat to name a few whatever it may be staying connected while we all distancing ourselves socially is the only way to maintain connections.

This time of pandemic has become stressful for all of us, but to ease ourselves it is important  that we not only stay healthy which is of utmost importance but also make ourselves socially active through virtual means.

Together we can fight back and stay connected even while staying away.