It is very easy to feel isolated in times like this. Having restricted access to seeing people you care about can bring on anxiety, and it can feel like you are losing touch with the people around you as the activities you often did together are no longer an option. It is in times like these that showing your friends you are there for them and care for them are so important. How can you do that when you can’t really see each other?
I would like to talk about FaceTime first. We are so lucky that we have this technology available to us right now. However, just FaceTiming can become mundane and lack the physicality which is so crucial to showcase our affection. Having themed nights where you all have to contribute something to the FaceTime would be one way to show that you care about one another – like, for example, creating PowerPoint presentations where you roast each other. This allows you to add personalization to what you’re doing and showcase that you are putting effort into the FaceTime. Another thing you can try is a cooking FaceTime where you compete to see who can make the best meal with the ingredients in your fridge. Again, this adds another level to hanging out virtually rather than just sitting and chatting.
Other than planning to spend time with your friends, you can do something more spontaneous. Sending small gifts in the mail is a great way to show your friends that you care for them. Just like on FaceTime, you can add a theme to your gifts by picking a category such as clothing, self-care items or food. Adding personalized notes shows that you are thinking about them even though you may not be able to see them. The act of gift-giving is something so personal and genuinely kind. You can also turn this into a fun activity where you and your friends have themed gifts you send each other every month or so. It’s something to look forward to together and it will make you feel good to give and receive.
It is hard to ignore the fact that maintaining contact with all your friends is more difficult when you are limited to only seeing a few of them. By creating opportunities for you and your friends to do something together while staying safe, you can express that they are still a priority in your life even though it may be difficult to see them right now.