COVID-19 - Socialisation in Isolation - Part 2

So… You’re in self-isolation, quarantine, working at home or staying at home with minimum outings per government restrictions? Phew! More of us than ever are at home, practicing social distancing, with minimal face-to-face contact with other humans.

The risks of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues during this COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic and the period of social isolation are real.

We need to make sure we are making good choices that help us keep our mental health in tip top shape, and this includes keeping socially connected with our friends and family, even while we’re geographically disconnected.

So… we bring you Part 2 of our socialising in isolation tips from MAX’s Dr Cara Dunn.

After checking out our first article – Socialisation in Isolation (Part 1) – we hope you’ve made plans with your friends and family and now you’re using video chat apps to chat away and catch up. Great!

But, are you now finding that you’re running out of things to say? Conversation topics running dry?

It’s difficult to find things to talk about when all you’re able to do all day is stay at home. How about finding something to talk about? Check out these ideas to keep the conversation and two-way inspiration flowing:

Google Chrome extension Netflix Party

This allows people to watch Netflix together. It synchronises screens and creates a group chat to communicate. A cheaper version of going to the cinema, AND you get to chat without being told-off!

Online Book Clubs

Check out the 10 best online book clubs to join from The Urban List for online book clubs to join or type “Online Book Clubs” into Google. It can be a good way to ‘meet’ new people and widen your social network from the comfort and safety of your home.

Find some new friends, something new and different to read and something new to talk about with existing friends – all at the same time!

Virtual Travel and Sightseeing

Ever fancied going to the Great Wall of China, visiting the Sistine Chapel in Italy, or walking through Yellowstone National Park and seeing its geysers and hot springs? Well you can without needing to leave the country! Check out these virtual tours from Escape where you can view famous landmarks, architecture or the cool outdoors.

Home Exercise Workouts

With gyms, fitness studios and classes all shutting down (for now), you might be missing your weekly workout with your friends. Or you might just miss being around other people and getting in some exercise at the same time. Don’t sweat it! A lot of fitness classes / studios and gyms are providing online video home workouts, many for free. These range from fitness classes and bodyweight workouts. Check out YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and browse the App Store for ideas.

Ideas sourced from: Loop, BBC, Popsugar, Broadsheet.