As we practice physical distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is important to remember physical distancing does not mean social isolation. In fact, it is critical to engage in social interactions to cope with the feelings of stress, anxiety, and uncertainty that may be caused by the current climate. While it may seem difficult to partake in human interactions without coffee shop dates, Sunday brunch at your favorite restaurant, game night, or happy hour, there are other ways to connect with your social circles!

Phone a Friend

When was the last time you called somebody just to chat? Phone a friend or family member! Chances are they are also at home looking to pass the time. Now, in particular, is a perfect opportunity to reach out to people who are living alone. Calling someone is also a great way to check-in on thoughts and feelings during this global pandemic.

Virtual... Everything?

Thanks to numerous video chatting options (FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, etc.), any moment can be a shared experience! Log on, grab (text) your friends, and have a virtual dinner party! Wind down after a hard day of working from home and enjoy a virtual happy hour with your co-workers! Need a more energetic pick-me-up? Have a virtual dance party! Get creative and share some moments during social distancing.

Movie Night

Create your favorite movie snacks from whatever is in the pantry and get cozy for a movie night! With "Netflix Party" (an extension only available for use with Google Chrome), you can synchronize Netflix video playback with friends! There is also a chat stream so you and your friends can share your thoughts and reactions as you binge-watch your favorite shows.

Dear (Google Doc) Diary

Who says Google Drive is only useful for sharing work-related files? Document your social distancing experience with your friends by starting a Google doc journal or create a social distancing bucket list and share your list of Netflix shows, bread recipes, and YouTube workouts with each other.

Game On

Don't cancel game night. Make it a virtual game night! Unleash your competitive side and play your friends in virtual versions of traditional board games, such as Monopoly, Yahtzee, or Chess and explore other multiplayer games online together!

Write a Letter or Send a Card

Take the opportunity to put pen to paper and write a letter to someone to say "hello," "thank you," or "I miss you." If you don't have stamps at home to send it, scan your handwritten message and email it as a fun surprise in someone's inbox.

Give Some Extra Love

Slow down and take time to check in with the people you share your home with. Connect with family members, roommates, and partners. Embrace social distancing as a great way to spend some quality time together. Remember, even loving extra on your pets is a great way to cope with stress. After all, you are all stuck inside together.