Mental health has become a subject of discussion during the pandemic with many people struggling due to isolation and loneliness. Staying at home and limiting social contact can take its toll. In this guide, we’ll explore some simple ways you can prevent isolation and boost mental wellbeing.
Keep in touch with friends and family
Most of us have missed seeing friends and family during the pandemic. Although restrictions are easing and it is now possible to meet up with others, some people might not feel comfortable being out and about just yet. If you’re worried about seeing friends, or you have family members that aren’t ready to see you in person yet, keep in touch online, arrange regular family gatherings via video calls, and reach out if you’ve had a tough day, you want to offload or you simply want to talk to somebody about subjects that don’t involve work. Catching up with friends can help you de-stress and unwind, and it can also lift your mood.
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Use hobbies to make friends
Making friends can be difficult at the best of times but in a pandemic, it’s particularly challenging to meet new people. One way to expand your social circle is to use your hobbies. From online gaming and group fitness classes to running clubs, you can use your interests and passions to socialize and form new friendships or relationships. Hobbies are also proven to improve mental health and they can be hugely beneficial if you’re prone to stress, you work long hours or you find it difficult to switch off and relax.
Consider different ways of dating
Social distancing, lockdowns and limited contact with others have changed the way people date. While you might not want to organize dates in restaurants or movie theaters at the moment, there are lots of ways you can meet prospective partners and get to know people better. Explore different ways of dating, such as using apps or chatlines, joining a dating agency or signing up to dating websites. You can filter results or choose services based on your preferences, such as black phone chats, and you can search for people in your local area. When you talk to people online, you can get to know them before you decide whether or not to meet up in person.
Use social media
Social media is an incredible platform for keeping in touch with people you already know and meeting new friends or potential dates. You can use messaging, interact with posts and images and tag friends and family to stay in contact and you can join social groups or communities based on your interests or your location, for example.
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The pandemic has caused many people to feel lonely and isolated. If you’re finding it tough, there are ways to socialize, maintain contact with others and meet new people without putting your health at risk. Call, message or hang out online with friends and family members, use your hobbies and interests to expand your social circle, take advantage of social media and explore new ways to date.
