Physical distancing is critical during COVID-19. But let's not become socially isolated

This column is an opinion by Josh Kozelj, who lives in Victoria and has been diagnosed with depression. For more information about CBC's Opinion section, please see the FAQ.

My mother always told me that talking is the best natural remedy. I'm an introvert, and have battled depression and social anxiety my entire life.

I used to hide in my room whenever we had large family gatheringsand come up with millions of excuses to not join the party. In my room it was just me and my thoughts.I could be myself without fearing what other people thought of me.

At the local grocery store, whenever someone in line commentson me wearing socks and sandals when it's chilly and pouring rain basically, I'm too lazy to lace up regular shoes I'd feel the anxiety rise in my stomach while I fumbled to explain myself.

But now, with schools and restaurants closing, sports arenas shutting their doors, and people staying inside for the foreseeable future, I find myself craving opportunities to get out the door and join a party or make small talk in a supermarket lineup.

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In times of crisis, we need to communicate with those close to us more than ever. Yes, we should be distancing ourselvesphysically but not socially. We shouldstill check in with our neighbours, friendsand family.

That's why I can't help but cringe whenever I hear the term "social distancing."While it's important for British Columbians and the world to listen to government and health official orders to stay at home during this global COVID-19 pandemic, it doesn't mean we have to stop being social.

In fact, we shouldn't. I understand how crippling the loneliness is that so many others are now facing for the first time.

That's why I support the World Health Organization's recent switch in language from "social distancing"to "physical distancing."By using "physical distancing" to describe the practice of keeping at least two metres away from others to slow down the spread of COVID-19, it highlightsthe importance of staying socially connected. Examples includetakingpart in the 7 p.m. cheer for health-care workers from your balcony, joining an online fitness class, or simply wavingto a person on the street as you get your groceries.

Premier John Horgan acknowledges 'anxiety is high' due to the COVID-19 pandemic:

Premier Horgan: Anxiety is high

5 years ago

Duration 1:02

B.C. Premier John Horgan says its going to take extraordinary resilience from British Columbians to get through the COVID-19 pandemic.

This pandemic may be a trying time for you, or it may not. I'm not a doctor, but I know what it's like to sit in a dark room alone believing I'm the only one battling mental health issues.

So, here's what has worked for me.

The first step in overcoming your anxiety and fears, especially during this pandemic, is acknowledging that it's OK to feel stressed.

Everyone has worries and fears, and it's important to know that it's alright to be anxious with all the uncertainty in the world. We're all in this together. If you're worried about the future and when we'll return to some sense of normalcy, you aren't alone.

It's also perfectly OK to seek out help. I was terrified of talking to my parents about my problems in fear of disappointing them, so they suggested I see a counsellor.It was the best decision they could have ever made for me.

Obviously, in the current climate, it may not be possible to meet in person for counselling sessions. But I would still recommend talking to someone about your worries, rather than being alone and holding in those thoughts. My mom works in mental health and she still meets with a small team in her office to call or text patients in need. Thereare alsovirtual counselling servicesin B.C.

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You can also express your fears on paper. Trybreathing exercises, like closing your eyes and trying to inhale through one nostril at a time. Or justcall or FaceTime your friends and family.

Finally, in these times of uncertainty, it's useful to keep a sense of routine and normalityin your life.

If you used to meet a friendfor coffee in the morning before work, try seeing if that friend is available to chat around the same time. Seeing a familiar face may ease your fears of the unknownand help you regain a schedule to follow.

Personally, I can't wait until this pandemic subsides so I can go to the grocery store and start up conversation with people in line commenting on my socks and sandals.

Editor's note: While the expression "social distancing" remains relatively common, health authorities in Canada are increasingly using the expression "physical distancing." For consistency and clarity, CBC has also done the same.

This column is part ofCBC's Opinion section. For more information about this section, please read ourFAQ.