To me, somewhere along the way, the Covid safety message got lost in translation. Keeping physical space between households was a wise strategy, but when this became known as ‘social distancing’ something tragic started to happen to our wellbeing and the wellness of others. Before you knew it, there was a sense of suspicion of others that was emotionally unhelpful. If I may quote the epidemiologist Michael Osterholm:
“I categorically reject the concept of social distancing. It’s physical distancing. I hope we never social distance, ever.”*
What are we told to do when we think we might be in danger from others? Self-isolate! But wouldn’t something like self-distancing sound kinder and more inclusive? Isn’t the temptation there to feel we are some sort of pariah, and to cut ourselves off from others socially and emotionally too?
Please be clear I do not disagree with the advice of creating space between us, but rather how it is phrased. Words matter. Often when I walk about physically separated, I feel that there is an undercurrent of anti-social anger and suspicion brewing amongst some. Distrust your neighbour, look out for yourself - that person may be dangerous! These views come with so much anxiety and tension attached to them. A grand strategy for physical health maybe, but extremely unhelpful for mental health and wellbeing.
Covid-19 is a most unfortunate reality. However, too much focus on the illness and too little focus on wellness leads to increased anxiety, reduced mental health and unleashing an uncomfortable new normal. Humans by design are social creatures. We should be doing everything in our power to ensure we have as much contact with others as we can, without that including unlawful physical contact. ALL studies on wellness consider social engagement as an essential ingredient to improved wellbeing and flourishing.
Physical distancing is a respectful, kind and non-judgemental response to our current situation. Please purge the term SOCIAL DISTANCING from your vocabulary and replace it with the more humane term PHYSICAL DISTANCING. And increase your social rapport to overcome the remaining distance between us.
Reflection Source: www.Smallercup.org
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*: COVID-19: Straight Answers from Top Epidemiologist Who Predicted the Pandemic, by Dan Buettner, Blue Zones, June 6, 2020. Please follow this link for an excellent science based discussion of Covid-19: https://shar.es/aHLAoO