If you’re feeling more isolated, you’re not alone.

We have all had to cope with isolation out of necessity due to the pandemic. But for some, this isolation has also been the fuel for depression.

Do you feel less connected to others and now find you retreat inward more and more often? Perhaps it’s difficult to feel interested in anything. Or you find yourself glued to your phone, scrolling through your social media feeds feeling disconnected from the world.

It’s actually kind of ironic. In an age when there us so many “communication” tools it’s possible to actually feel less connected and engaged with other people.

If you are struggling with depression due to isolation, here are five ways to start overcoming it.

1. Stop Scrolling, Start Having a Conversation

First, let’s consider your phone. It’s an amazing piece of technology that does, in fact, keep you linked to the wider world. However, it also allows you to engage in that world passively. That means it’s easy for you to scroll through posts, news stories, and comments, and still not actively engage with anyone.

We know that to overcome isolation and depression, you need meaningful connections with other people. Consider these ways to turn your phone into a more helpful resource:

Set restrictions on your social media apps so that you are engaging on those platforms for a limited time each day.
Call someone the old-fashioned way. When you actually make a phone call and talk to another person on the other end in realtime you’re likely to feel more connected?
Take advantage of video chats to engage face to face with friends and family.

Finally, why not just turn your phone off? Take back the time and energy you would have spent on the phone and redirect it to more significant, creative activities.

2. Volunteer Your Time

A great way to overcome depression and find meaningful connections with other people is through volunteering. Certainly, there are many organizations in your community that could use your knowledge, skills, or help. These could include food banks, Habitat for Humanity, youth groups, etc.

If these are not an option for you for medical or health reasons, don’t give up! There are actually many ways that you can volunteer remotely using your computer. For instance, you might

provide data entry or grant writing services for nonprofits.
make phone calls to potential donors.
conduct wellness check calls to vulnerable people.
review satellite photos to expose potential polluters.
offer translation services.

3. Start with a Book Club

To some, a book club sounds like something a retiree does who has time to spare. However, virtual book clubs have flourished for good reason. There are many that are meant for a wide range of age groups. Whether you are a kid or a kid at heart, there is a book club for you.

The great thing about a book club is that everyone is discussing the story and related topics, effectively stimulating their brains as they read and share. Mental and emotional bonds are built as topics change from month to month. If you were already a little socially hesitant, this provides the advantage of everyone literally being on the same page.

4. Taking Care of a Pet

Assuming you are in the right headspace to take on the responsibility of a pet, a furry friend can really help if you struggle with depression. Pets provide companionship, unconditional love, and often need to be exercised regularly that can get you out and about. They also recognize you as their caregiver too, which can boost your sense of purpose.

5. Participating in Depression Treatment

Beyond making lifestyle changes, depression counseling is also useful for overcoming isolation. Do you often feel misunderstood? Or believe that nobody cares about what you are struggling with? In depression therapy, you can express and explore those feelings safely. Your counselor will be there to listen to you and support you in ways that you likely need right now. Treatment is a higher level of human connection that you may not get in your everyday life.

When you’re depressed, it’s easy to isolate. However, by making lifestyle changes that better support connection and understanding, you can overcome isolation. Counseling will also provide many benefits as well. Find out today how depression treatment can help.