Coronavirus has had a huge impact on every aspect of public life, but few people realize the disastrous effects the pandemic can have on mental health. Social isolation is essential for avoiding illness, but it can also be detrimental for those with underlying psychiatric issues. Fortunately, there are ways you can continue socializing and avoid the anxiety and depression of coronavirus distancing.
1. Have “Face-to-Face” Conversations
Thanks to the Digital Revolution, having face-to-face interactions no longer requires being right in front of someone. There are now a variety of apps and computer programs that allow you to video chat with anyone in the world. Consider downloading the following tools if you haven’t already.
- Skype
- Google Duo
- Viber
- Apple Facetime
Video chat has been shown to be effective in reducing depression. In fact, studies find that it does this much more successfully than emails, text messaging or Facebook Messenger. Of course, you’ll get the same benefits if you use Facebook for video calls. Plus, it’s already connected to your friends.
2. Enjoy a Trivia Night
One of the most sociable activities a person can enjoy is Trivia Night at their favorite bar or restaurant. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has shut down most of these. With the always growing popularity of this activity, though, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of ways to enjoy it from home.
Check out the following options:
These tools will give you all the excitement of a fun night out – minus the overpriced food and drinks – and can help you overcome coronavirus depression and anxiety.
3. Watch a Movie Together
Psychiatrists say that watching movies can reduce depressive symptoms, so there’s already one good reason to kick back and turn on Netflix. Of course, movies are always more exciting with friends. That’s where Netflix Party comes in. By downloading this Chrome extension, you can watch movies and shows in real time with friends no matter where they are. There’s even a window where you can chat up your buddies!
4. Join Facebook Groups
Over 1.4 billion people are members of at least one Facebook Group, so it’s very likely that you’re in a few. It could be devoted to your local community or even a festival you attend yearly. Many people don’t realize, though, that there’s literally a Facebook Group for everything.
Fans of the cult show Quantum Leap will enjoy Quantum Leap Fans. Connoisseurs of scary movies should check out Addicted to Horror. Do you love memes and the Netflix show Tiger King? Tiger King Memes is the place for you.
With more than 620 million Facebook Groups, you’ll always be able to find a community of individuals who love to discuss the exact same things you do.
5. Meet a New Friend with Chat Services
Many people have fond memories of the early days of AOL Instant Messenger, Virtual Places and MSN Messenger. These tools were exciting because we could meet new people from around the world. And while most have fallen into disuse over the years, there are still options for those who want to meet new friends.
Talk With Strangers has been around for some time, and you can join chat rooms devoted to various subjects. Talk.Chat is a similar service. Those seeking the “new kid on the block,” however, should check out QuarantineChat. Everyone on this site is simply trying to get over the loneliness of social distancing.
Depression from Coronavirus Isn’t Inevitable
The mental health issues people are facing from COVID-19 are just as real as the disease itself. Fortunately, being alone during this time isn’t a foregone conclusion. By utilizing these alternative methods of socializing, you can fight back and maintain the human connections necessary to overcome depression during coronavirus isolation.
