Surviving 'Social Distancing'

Surviving 'Social Distancing'

Written by Brittany P. Male MSW, CADC, LCSW

All of us are adjusting to a new, and hopefully temporary, normal and may need some direction on how to mentally survive. It’s important to have compassion and patience with yourself and others, as we transition our lives to even more of a virtual one then we were just a few weeks ago. We’re all being impacted by this pandemic. Hopefully the following can help as you navigate the next few weeks.

Create a Daily Routine

Whether you are beginning to work at home, you've been temporarily laid off, or you are finding yourself balancing being a ‘Stay at Home Parent’ and ‘teacher’, having a consistent daily routine can help create some normalcy during this time.

Things to Consider:

• Look at your routine prior to the "stay-home-order", and incorporate those same elements into your new routine. 
• Collaborate with your family members or children to make a daily routine. 
• Have realistic expectations for yourself. Working from home or working and being a parent from home can be a difficult balance and you may find yourself not as productive or effective as you usually are. This is alright. 
• Don't try too much at one time. It may be fun to do some extra house organization or cleaning during this time, but I just recommend pacing yourself so that you don't get overwhelmed and then frustrated.

Be Creative with Socialization
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There are so many FREE apps and resources out there that people can access in order to continue socialization despite the 'stay-home-order'. Utilize them to continue Friday Pizza and Movie night with the Grandparents or Friends, workouts, lunch dates, or play-dates.

Filter your News Sources

• With all the information out there right now about COVID-19 it is important to make sure that the news sources that you're following are communicating information accurately. It is recommended that you utilize the Center for Disease Control and Prevention so that you're making sure to get the most accurate information. 
• It is also important to make sure that you're not consuming too much media. Allow yourself to stay informed but create boundaries around consuming too much media that can often lead to more anxiety. 

Practice Continued Self-Care

• Get Outside.
• Open windows.
• Light a candle or diffuse essential oils.
• Play music.
• Identify when you may need a break from those you're living with and take a break in another room or space. 
• Play video-games.
• Watch movies.
• Watch shows.
• Do some spring cleaning, home maintenance. 
• Practice meditation, yoga, or mindfulness.
• Reach out to your therapist to process your thoughts and feelings during this time.