Once again, we’re back to being restricted in our homes with lockdown restrictions across cities. Many of us are facing challenges that can be stressful and overwhelming, especially for the younger generation. Social distancing is a necessity of the hour, but it can also make us feel isolated and lonely and can lead to stress and anxiety. Working from home, pushing ourselves to be productive, staying in touch with loved ones all at the same time can be hard on us, however, these are also the times when we seek to find meaningful connections.
Ruchika Kanwal, Bumble India’s Mental Wellbeing Expert and Clinical Psychologist shares suggestions to navigate this time:
Focus on things you can control: Focusing on questions with unknown answers, and circumstances outside of our control can be stressful, making you anxious and overwhelmed. When you feel yourself getting caught up in fear of what might happen, try to shift your focus to things you can control. For example, you can’t control how severe the coronavirus outbreak is in your city or town, but you can take steps to try to reduce stress . 1) Take a break from social media if you start to feel overwhelmed. 2) Getting plenty of sleep which supports your immune system.
Be Honest and Transparent: Be open and transparent with others while making connections online. Let the other person know if you don’t feel a connection or don’t want to take it forward for any reason. In these tough times, there might be a possibility that you are in distress, and it is okay to let the other person know you’d be away for a while and reconnect when things get better.
Set your boundaries: Mindful virtual dating involves setting boundaries just like in-person dating. This involves deciding and sharing how you wish to be treated and not settling for anything less. You can use Bumble’s Voice Call and Video Chat features without having to meet in person or share your phone number or email address. Video chats and dates are a great way to have fulfilling conversations–take breaks from stressful thoughts related to the pandemic and get to know someone virtually.
Take your time: With lockdown restrictions back in place, people are restricted to their homes but the need to stay connected remains. There is no better time than now to get to know someone better, at a deeper level before you meet them in-person. Take your time and look for clarity when it comes to your dating intentions. This kind of ‘slow dating’ where you take longer to know more about your connection will help in figuring out what you’re comfortable with, virtually and in real life.
Remember to be kind to yourself: Make a daily list of things you’re doing, remind yourself of the things that are going well. Despite the current situation, perhaps you’re able to spend more time with your loved ones or reading a book that you’ve been meaning to get to or learning how to cook.
Don’t lose hope: Awkward silences or talking to multiple people before finding someone you fit right with can be tiresome at times, but don’t lose hope! Staying socially connected during this time is key to our emotional wellbeing as we navigate this time.
Source: in.mashable.com
