Social vs. Physical Distancing: A Closer Look

For the past few months, states across the country have begun to enact mandatory social distancing guidelines to help curb the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This swift wave of action has also included closing non-essential businesses and even schools.

Since there are already thousands of confirmed cases here in America, the best defense so far has been social distancing, or measures taken to get individuals to self-isolate as much as possible. When out in public for essentials such as groceries, individuals are encouraged to remain at least six feet apart at all times.

Places such as New York City are even beginning to double the fines associated with breaking social distancing rules, such as hosting a house party or other large gathering. NYC has seen an explosion in COVID-19 cases due to its densely packed population. Hospitals are overwhelmed and even have a shortage of medical supplies. Despite endless media coverage of this chaos, there is still hope. 

social distancing concept in wood type

Social vs. Physical Distancing

Limited physical contact doesn’t have to mean limited social contact. Experts have already weighed in on how this period of self-isolation will (potentially) negatively affect mental health. Social media news feeds are filled with day-to-day updates on the spread of this new virus. 

Technology connects us in more ways now than ever before. We still have the ability to call, text, or video chat with each other. We can also connect through a variety of social media platforms with those we care most about. You can catch up with an old friend, call a parent, or check in on a coworker. 

That’s why the World Health Organization has promoted labeling these new practices as physical distancing, not social distancing. You shouldn’t have to cut your social ties during these current times; you should actually be strengthening them. Public health officials have already begun to advocate that groups adjust their wording accordingly.

social distancing word cloud on tablet

Sacrificing your mental health to preserve your physical health isn’t exactly a fair trade-off. You can always reach out to friends and family because communication keeps us connected during these uncertain times. Long gone are the days of flip phones and ten cents per text message. Most people now have at least a phone, wifi, email, the list goes on. Staying connected and informed is easier than ever. 

2020 & Beyond:

These uncertain times have shifted much business into the online realm. If you need help transitioning certain aspects of your business online, contact StratGrow today. We are a Tucson-based digital marketing agency specializing in content, branding, search engine optimization (SEO), social media management, website design, and much more.