When I first heard the phrase “social-distancing”, it didn’t sound too uphill a task.

Staying out of crowded places, standing 2 metres from another person and not gathering in groups – that sounded easy for an introvert like me.

But after serving my Stay-Home Notice and spending weeks in the circuit breaker, I’m rethinking my previous sentiment.

With no end to the coronavirus in sight, what cannot be overlooked is our mental health.

The truth is humans have always needed social connection. We thrive on human interaction, no matter how introverted we are.

But interaction has been stripped away from us in this season. So, with no end to the coronavirus in sight, what cannot be overlooked is our mental health.

Facing four walls constantly, feeling trapped or restricted will come to weigh on us. And speaking from experience, it may even feel similar to times of depression or anxiety.

How then do we not lose hope or sight of a brighter future? To keep our spirits up, here are some practical tips that I’ve found helpful in managing our social and mental health.

3 STEPS TO STAY SANE AND SOCIAL

1. Be sure to rest

“It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.” (Psalm 127:2 NLT)

Don’t give yourself pressure to accomplish a mountain heap of tasks in front of you.

Maybe start the day instead by thanking God for good health and for a fresh start. Find a routine each day and don’t forget to do things for yourself.

If you feel tired, it’s okay to rest. After all, God grants rest to those he loves. 

2. Be intentional in serving others

We can be purposeful about seizing every opportunity to be a blessing.

For instance, why not bless your loved ones by sending food their way? It’s such a small but powerful way to show that you care about them and are thinking about them.

You can also do activities with them! I’ve been using FaceTime and Zoom to work out with my boyfriend. It’s a way to spend time with him while still keeping fit.

Even though we may be separated by physical distance, we can still make efforts to keep our connection real.

3. Be thankful for this time

When was the last time we had to stay at home for such an extended period of time?

Can I challenge you: this time we have is a precious gift that won’t come by again. Maybe it’s time to slow down, reflect and start learning to be still.

Maybe you’ve been running your own race this whole while, maybe you’ve lost sight of what’s important or forgotten what you’re called to do.

It doesn’t matter. This is the perfect time to ask our Father in Heaven for peace, guidance and strength.

It’s going to be a difficult race to run, but if we look to Him, slow down and begin encouraging those around us – we can finish well together.