Dear Diane,
Do you have any ideas for avoiding loneliness while I am social distancing? My company has shut down and I am looking for some productive ways to stay connected. I am a hugger and the lack of social interaction is getting to me.
Thanks for your help.
Shelly D.
Dear Shelly,
Social distancing has become the norm but along with the isolation is the feeling of loneliness. People need social engagement to feel a sense of belonging. But, for now, almost all forms of engagement have been put on hold. How do you do the right thing and still get and give what people need to thrive emotionally?
Connect by Technology
People need people. We generally celebrate friendships and family with small gestures like eating out, grabbing coffee and going to a movie. It’s our community. We must rethink how we engage for the time being. A Facetime call to go through recipes or alongside each other, share a cup of tea (with the full-blown tea set up!), or share an evening cocktail is an excellent way to stay connected without being close in proximity.
Follow Your Interests
Learn a new skill or research a new adventure during this time of social distancing. If you are thinking about taking an online course, now is the ideal time. If you are thinking of creating an online course, also no time better than the present. You may have dreams of a travel adventure at some point and you can start your research and take some virtual tours. If you have always wanted a side hustle, jump in and start making inquiries. Volunteer to make a call to reach out to homebound elderly through a church organization or local non-profit. The hardest part is getting started.
Support a Friend
All kinds of celebrations are getting put on hold. Weddings are being canceled, proms and travel are on the back burner and we all know someone who is experiencing a huge disappointment during this time. Something as simple as a friendly voice will help when it comes to comforting a bride to be or soon to be graduate who may not get to walk the stage. We can’t change the situation but we can be there for moral support.
Give a Virtual Hug
Physical touch calms us down and helps us feel a connection to another person. Hand holding, hugs and kisses are all forms of love and affection. When touch is absent, we need a substitute. If you are close in proximity, a genuine smile is an indicator of comfort and approval. Eye contact and an affirmative smile and head nod are acknowledgment you are listening to the other person when you are in their presence. Hearing someone’s voice, sounding happy to connect, is another way of showing support for each other. Engaging in meaningful conversations for a short but specific period of time can mean the world to someone who is waiting to hear from you. People can see and hear your interest in your voice. They also know when you are distracted. Being present and showing awareness are two vital components of letting someone know you care.
Send a hug by:
- Delivering a meal to the door
- Mailing or dropping off a note
- Pot some herbs and drop them off to someone who you know enjoys cooking
- Send a bag of birdseed to a neighbor who loves redbirds
