Emotional distance: the unexpected side effect of COVID 19, Laura Mazzitelli

Emotional distance: the unexpected side effect of COVID-19

We know that coronavirus measures are going to impact our economy well beyond 2020, but what about the potential long-lasting effects on the way we interact with one another? Laura Mazzitelliinvestigates.

FROM SANITISATION STATIONS TO self-isolation, there no doubt about it – our day to day life has shifted in one way or another.

As a united effort, countries affected by the coronavirus pandemic made the necessary efforts to reduce health risks to stop the spread.

Whether it’s restaurants making more space between tables, retail stores limiting the number of customers inside at one time, or gyms having to restructure or close some machines, it’s clear even the little things are changing in an effort to keep people safe.

Online platforms like Zoom have made staying 1.5 metres away from others so much easier to implement. This means things like university studies, work obligations, and even social gatherings could still go ahead.

But it’s just not the same.

Whether it is the small or big changes in the way we move, think and interact, we need to look at the wider picture here: What if the effects of physical distancing can disrupt our emotional safety nets? Is it possible that the distance can seep further than the surface, entering into the social and psychological realms of our lives?

Contrary to your new year’s resolution, a lot that has happened in 2020 won’t necessarily be able to stay in 2020. Socially, these unprecedented times will have extraordinary mental health consequences that need to be addressed.

Even a subconscious move away from a stranger passing by shows the effects physical distancing is having on our day-to-day interactions. As a society, we need to be careful not to let physical distance result in emotional isolation.

For the more introverted personalities, this time may not be much of a strain socially. (In fact, some may even feel completely unbothered by the ongoing social distancing rules). For the more extroverted or more affectionate type, however, the struggle is real.

The thing is, we’re kind of getting used to this whole distancing thing now, more than we may even realise. Even hearing the words ‘social distance’ can infer being far away; disconnected; removed. So much so that it can feel like estrangement is the ‘new normal’.

Hanging out with friends in close proximity and hugging loved ones has been discouraged, and even handshakes seem like a thing of the past. Crowds are also a huge no no, and someone getting in your 1.5 metres of space can be, well, a little anxiety inducing. (Not to mention, PDA with that special someone is even more frowned upon than it was pre-corona).

In all seriousness, while it may sound trivial to some, these small ‘social’ things in our lives can actually affect our happiness levels.

According to Healthline, it’s scientifically proven that something as simple as a hug can make us happier. Hugs can life our spirits, and can even reduce stress and blood pressure levels. (Also, the same hormone released when hugging someone rises when we touch or sit close to someone else).

So can physical distancing have longer lasting effects on the way we behave, communicate, and socialise? And what does this mean for its effect on affection, intimacy, and human connection?

While at time of writing, there is not a whole host of recent studies about the effects social distancing will have down the track, various health organisations have been a part of exploring the possible ongoing psychological impacts.

According to the Black Dog Institute (BDI), failing to distinguish ‘physical distancing’ from ‘social distancing’ can potentially result in long term impacts on social inclusion. In recommending coping strategies, BDI notes that depression, post-traumatic stress, confusion, anger, boredom and loneliness are among the potential ongoing psychological impacts from isolation.

What can we do to try alleviate these potential long-term effects?

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs expresses that social and community groups help satisfy the human need for love, acceptance, and belonging. With this, comes the need for emotional relationships, which is the driving force of human behaviour.

So, maintaining or forming emotional connections with others is one way to improve mental health, while still maintaining that safe distance.

Another way, according to The Official Journal of the Association of Medicine and Psychiatry, is exercise:

“Aerobic exercises, including jogging, swimming, cycling, walking, gardening and dancing, have been proved to reduce anxiety and depression.”

Similarly, Head To Health reports that even singing can help improve mental health, as it releases endorphins (or ‘happiness hormones’) and oxytocin (which help shape internal trust and bonding).

They also agree that dancing, especially when in groups, can boost happiness levels and self-esteem, alleviate anxiety and depression, and reduce bodily aches and pains (we can still do all this while keeping physical distance, btw!).

Sure, these seem like temporary happiness fixes or strategies, doing the little things we love, together (even if at a distance), can help alleviate the potential for long term mental health issues associated with physical distancing and isolation.

Pictures: Lucia Mai