Kailey Gee
Social distancing has impacted students' mental health both positively and negatively.
Six feet. That’s the distance every person is recommended to stay physically apart from others, according to the CDC. Although social media and other online communication methods can partly fulfill the sense of isolation, some may believe seeing a friend over a screen simply isn’t the same as in-person. This feeling of separation often has an impact on a person’s mental health.
Pre-existing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders can be affected in many ways. For some, the time alone is a time to relax, reflect and move away from the everyday things that cause them stress. However, for others, physical connection and routine can be their best coping strategies. On top of already existing mental health disorders, the idea of possibly contracting or unknowingly spreading COVID-19 can be enough to make anyone feel anxious. As days pass and deadlines no longer seem real, finding motivation to get out of a slump can be a daunting task.