Loneliness is an isolating feeling. In the middle of this never-ending pandemic, you might be feeling that your contact with friends and family is limited, your social activities are restricted, and you’re missing everyday connections.
It’s natural to feel this way in the middle of a global pandemic when social distancing and quarantine is encouraged. Don’t blame yourself for feeling like you’re struggling (now or at any point in your life).
As we continue to social distance until things are safer, it’s important to take care of your mental health. Especially when you’re feeling socially isolated and lonely – your mental health is important.
Here are 5 ways to feel less lonely:
- Even if you are isolated at home, try to stick to a schedule as much as you can. Trying to find a sense of “normalcy” in these days will help you get through them.
- There are lots of ways to reach out to friends and family without having to meet in person. Zoom calls, using social media, and even the old-fashioned phone call can remind you that you’re not alone.There are ways to watch movies together (on Netflix and Disney+) without even being in the same space.
- Make time to move. Whether it be physical exercise or yoga (or dance!) get your heart pumping and release some endorphins.
- Practice gratitude at the end of your day. Try shifting into a more positive mindset. Appreciate the small things in your day to day.
- Join a group or class online that focuses on things you enjoy – exercise classes, book club, virtual paint nights, dance parties…etc are all great options to feel connected to people even when you’re not in the same space as them.
No one is exempt from feeling lonely. All of us, at one point or another, have felt cut off from our loved ones. Some of us have the privilege of greater access to technology and resources than others.
While we’re mindful about checking on our friends – sometimes we forget to check in on ourselves. Don’t forget to take care of yourself during this epidemic too.
