Social cohesion, not isolation, is what we all need in these strange times

That headline is paraphrased from a physician interviewed by CBC Radio's The Current today. The doctor lamented use of the phrase social isolation, pointing out it's not what we need when people feel distressed by what's happening around them.

Instead, Dr Brian Goldman said it's time to rephrase what we all require - social cohesion and physical isolation. These are stressful times, and more people need to feel socially connected than ever before.

Before talking with the doctor, Matt Galloway, The Current's host, spoke with other guests, asking how they were. Most said they were "managing" or "getting by" at the moment.

Contact friends and colleagues who may feel overwhelmed or distressed

Their responses made me think just how difficult it must be for a whole range of people . . . those who felt isolated even before the virus struck, people with depression, sufferers of obsessive-compulsive disorders, or individuals prone to anxiety.

I know can be hard to imagine what it must be like living each day feeling as though you're on the edge, or trying to stymie catastrophic thoughts. But in some ways, we don't have to imagine. What we can do is be there at the end of a phone, email, or Skype/Zoom screen. So if you know someone who in the past has felt distressed by sudden change or uncertainty, reach out if you feel you can offer support.

How to take care of our mental health when we're isolated

Even if you don't know someone who may feel blind-sided by the disruption and uncertainty, it's important to contact friends and colleagues to ask how they are and if they'd like to catch-up with a virtual chat.

I'm not a mental health practitioner, but I've endured periods of crippling anxiety and depression in the past. And like everyone, I have friends who've had their share of mental health challenges. Based on my experiences, the following are some of the things that can help with social cohesion or well-being in these strange times. If you're concerned about how you are feeling at the moment, be sure to contact your doctor or health practitioner.

Be connected

Talk with friends, colleagues, or family each day. You may like texting; I'm not a fan. And at times like this I don't think lengthy texting sessions do much to fill the need for connectedness. Hearing someone's voice or seeing them on a video call is much better.

Set a plan for the day

Having a routine and fulfilling goals gives most of us a sense of purpose. Think about what you need or want to accomplish each day, and build in time for your social connections and outside walks.

Exercise

Exercise, for many of us, is a form of therapy. Now that the gym is closed, it's time to be creative and make sure you get those regular exercise sessions in! Dig out your old hand-held weights or buy an inexpensive set and commit to using them each day. Search through Youtube videos and find the best at-home exercise routines that work for you.

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Try to be grounded

When you're anxious or worried, you're not grounded. Being grounded has a calm - almost solid - feeling. Being grounded can mean different things to each of us. It may mean feeling fully present in your mind and body, or feeling connected to the earth. Practice being grounded by walking barefoot in your garden or a beach. Do this slowly and breath deliberately. Other methods include meditation, deep breathing, listening to music that relaxes us, or walking in nature - particularly amongst trees.

Start a journal

One of the best acts of self-care is getting your thoughts out of your head and onto paper. It doesn't matter how you write or what your words may sound like; this is your private space and the purpose is to help yourself feel a bit better.

Cut back on news

If this is a trigger for your anxiety or worry, cut it back or out completely. No one really needs to know what's happening every hour of the day or how many new cases of COVID-19 there are. You do need to be aware of updates and regulations in your community and how to stay safe. Rely on one good source of news and steer clear of speculation. Choose how you want to receive that information and when you have it shutdown your laptop, TV, or radio.

Be kind to yourself and others

Be kind to yourself. Having a bad day is no reason to beat yourself up. And when your friends and colleagues are having their bad days, see if you can be kind to them, share a joke, or just listen. One of the hardest things about this crisis is that the future feels uncertain. It's human to want to know what will happen next. But it truly is worth trying to let go of that want. Know that - as many have already said - one certainty is that we will get through this. And in the not-too-distant future life will get back to normal.