Missing some human connection during this time of quarantines and sheltering-at-home? You’re not alone (pun intended)! People crave connection because interacting with fellow humans can lower anxiety levels and keep us from feeling depressed. When we connect with others, it improves our self-esteem, creates emotional bonds, builds trust, and increases our feelings of happiness. Thankfully, connections can be made across distances. Here are some ways to stay connected with family and friends when you’re not able to see them in person.
Phone Calls: Perhaps the most obvious. Pick up the phone! Hearing a familiar voice, whether via a quick conversation or a long one, is beneficial in reinforcing the bond with the person on the other end of the line.
FaceTime or Zoom or Skype: Virtual connections are more accessible than ever. Even better, you may be able to set up with video call to do group sessions! Get the gang together for some fun and laughter as you catch up with one another. You can join by video and/or audio, which makes it simple to get everyone together if they’re available. The ability to see one another is a technological gift.
Book Clubs: Having group discussions (whether virtual, on the phone, or through text messages) about a book everyone read is a great way to feel connected with one another. You’re able to have deep, thorough conversations about the same topic, and that can make the conversation flow. Book clubs are an effective opportunity to connect with a group of friends or even with folks you’ve just met. Who doesn’t love a good book?
Online games: You can find virtually any game online these days. Better yet, many websites provide the opportunity to interact with others all around the world while playing your game of choice. Games like Words With Friends, Evil Apples vs. Humanity (an app that is similar to Cards Against Humanity), or Heads Up (again, an app) can be used to stay connected with friends and enjoy a game night.
Virtual Paint Night: Yes, you can have paint nights from the comfort of your own home. Yaymaker offers a virtual Paint Nite class where you can join with friends and follow a livestream to create your masterpiece. Of course, you’ll need your own art supplies.
Netflix Watch Party: The web browser, Chrome, is currently offering an extension that allows family and friends to have virtual movie nights through Netflix. The extension synchronizes the movie and adds a group chat so you can communicate throughout the watch party.
The digital age has presented us with countless opportunities to stay connected across distances. If you find yourself craving interaction from some of your favorite people, look no further than using your phone or computer to set something up. You’ll be amazed at the plethora of apps and websites that aim to bring everyone together!