Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, people had to spend time away from their friends. This was brought about by the social and physical distancing rules put forward. Many governments all over the world imposed these rules to curb the spread of the virus. However, people have tried to stay in touch through screens devices in many cases. Research by Zoom fatigue showed that video interaction could not replace the one on one interactions. Human beings need social interaction. The study also proved that those who were sheltered experienced loneliness.
Loneliness is considered to be a public health issue by most researchers. Some researcher says that social interactions are a biological need for the physical wellbeing of a person. On the other side, another research shows that loneliness leads to depression, increasing premature mortality. Human beings are generally meant to be social. Interacting with other peoples that is the friends boosts your mental health.
The biggest question during this pandemic period is our interactions safe? We should be cautious with how we interact to ensure we are safe to avoid the risk of contracting the virus. You should know the boundaries while interacting with others and take caution
You should note that mental health is as important as physical health. In case you note you are anxious about social interactions, you should not hesitate to see a therapist. Contraction of the virus has led to weird behaviors and isolation; neither is the solution. Talking to a therapist could be the most significant step to your wellbeing.
Follow the guidelines and avoid fake news
According to the world health organization, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in false information. The online platforms have been loaded with much information with little or no proof of what is wrong or right. It has also been challenging to know what to do and the risk of doing a particular activity. Therefore, one should be careful about the information we get from the media. We should be kin to follow the guidelines given by the health experts.
To be at ease with our anxiety concerning social interactions, we need information from trusted sources. This will reduce the speculations and the invention of our safety measures, which may be useful or not at times. A good example is that the WHO recommends that we should not wear masks while exercising.
Play within your limits
As you open your social circle, you should first evaluate yourself. As an individual, you are aware of the factors that alter your response to coronavirus. Have you experienced any traumatic event? According to a study by the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 50% of American adults experience Trauma in their lives. If you are overwhelmed by negative emotions, you should see a therapist. These will help you adjust and get back to social interactions.
Respect other peoples boundaries
The fact is that not all the people you meet will be on the same page with you on matters concerning the coronavirus. Others will not be familiar with social interaction rules. Since we do not know the experience, other people have neither do they realize ours; we should show some respect. Before we meet our friends, we should discuss our boundaries. It would be best to let your friend know what you are comfortable with and what makes you uncomfortable. The friend should also do the same for you to build an understanding. Doing this, your social interactions will be positive to your mental health.
This is a challenging time, and we should support one another to fight loneliness. If you happen to find yourself struggling with loneliness, you should consult a therapist through teleheatlh services like Talkspace, which is available on the Apple app store, and through Android devices.
