Life can be challenging. It’s easy to get lost in the day to day grind of everyday chores and tasks (finishing up leftover work, cooking dinner, taking care of pets are a few things that come to mind). It’s easy to lose track of time and forget to call or check in with those we care about from time to time.

But it’s so important for our happiness and mental health to have a strong network of loved ones and family members we keep in touch with frequently.

Here are our Maryland therapists’ tips for getting back in touch this fall.

Connect with people in person to boost your mental health

1) Meet at a restaurant/for coffee

Carve out some time if you can to meet at your local coffee shop or favorite restaurant. They will be happy that you made the effort to meet them outside of your normal schedule (and so will you!).

2) Attend an event in the DC/Maryland metro area

Since we live in the DMV, there is always a lot to do within the city! Look up ‘events near me’ on google and see what you find. Bring a friend, or two, or three…the more the merrier!

3) Potluck

This is a great way to bring people together (and eat delicious food). Gather friends and family for a Friday night potluck and relax together as you ease into the weekend. Who can resist fantastic food and amazing company?

When the schedule’s tight or COVID is going around, you can boost your mental health online. Try these ways to hang out from home.

1) Give a friend a call

This is an easy way to reconnect with your social network. Give your friends and loved ones a call and chat anywhere from 10 minutes to 2 hours (if you’ve got the time!) to help reconnect with old but familiar faces.

2) FaceTime/WhatsApp Chat

It’s always nice to see people’s faces (without the masks!). Here’s a way to reconnect with friends without exposing them or yourself to any sort of sickness (be it the flu or coronavirus).

3) Virtual Movie Night

This is something that younger generations have come up with during the lockdown in the pandemic. This is a great way to get some or many friends together without being in person.

These are some tips and tricks to help keep in touch with friends and family. Using these tips at least once a month may help you keep track of reconnecting with those that you care about (and give yourself a break from your day-to-day routine). Bonding with those we care about is essential to our happiness, health, and mental well-being.

Want more personalized support for anxiety, ADHD, or the stress of life?

Schedule a consultation at Better Together Family Therapy to find further support from our Maryland licensed therapists.