Here's What to Do When Social Distancing Gets Tough, According to a Therapist

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Technology has really come through during this time. There are so many resources available that allow us to stay in touch with our friends and family when we're trying to maintain a distance. "Reach out to friends and still seek outlets for meaningful social time, suggests Madeleine DiLeonardo, MEd, LPC, NCC, a licensed professional counselor and the founder of Mind Body and Soul by DiLeonardo Wellness. "Don't just scroll through your phone and like Instagram posts, but instead call a friend you haven't spoken to in a while, or schedule a Skype date with friends to all eat dinner or play a game together."

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When I asked DiLeonardo what people who live alone should do, she recommended not isolating and making an effort to contact friends and family. It also helps to chat with people who are in the same boat as you or understand what you're going through. "Utilize your support system that know you live alone and allow yourselves to rely on each other!" she says. And if you don't live by yourself but know someone who does, continue to offer them support and check in on them.

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"While initially being at home and not needing to go into work sounds exciting for some, after a while it can become lonely or boring," DiLeonardo says. "Additionally, the events occurring in the world right now can contribute to feelings of sadness or depression. Having a set schedule and doing your best to engage in self-care during this time is essential."

So try to have a set wake time and bedtime, get dressed before you start working, ensure you're making time to eat, and add more structure to your days.

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It's okay to feel your feelings. "This is truly an unprecedented situation, as we have not had any similar lived experiences in the recent past," DiLeonardo says. "Try to remember this, and be kind to yourself and others during this time. People's anxiety manifests in different ways. Some people panic, some people minimize, others internalize. Now is not a time for judgment and is also not a time to put pressure on yourself. Do the best that you can each day given the circumstances, one day at a time, and don't demand much more than that of yourself or others."

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This has been pretty helpful for me. Find ways to entertain yourself, whether it's watching a fun show on Netflix or Hulu, doing an at-home workout, listening to a podcast, read a book, meditate… The list can go on and on. Consider this a time to explore a new interest, or do that thing you've been meaning to try. 

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Right now, it's still okay to take a walk, as long as you're practicing safe social distancing. A burst of fresh air can really help you feel better, and after so much time at home, it's nice to get a change of scenery. Put on some sneakers, put your headphones in (or not, if you want to listen to nature's sounds), and go for a walk.

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This is important: If you are having a tough time, it's okay to seek help. "Additionally, many therapists are offering the option for telehealth, which allows you to have a therapy session via HIPAA-compliant video conferencing, so if you're feeling like you need additional support during this time, there are ways to do so while maintaining social distancing," says DiLeonardo.

You can also contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for help and resources at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Next up: 25 Little Things You Can do for Yourself and Others Right Now