Tackling a pandemic like COVID-19   and preventing its further spread is vital for society. But such measures do not mean that there should be a collapse in social support systems. The pandemic has resulted in precautionary measures such as quarantines, social distancing or in some cases total lockdown in some regions and countries around the world. For the first time in many decades, people are forced to adjust to new realities and confront with such restrictions. Moreover, the future is completely uncertain and unpredictable. Apart from just going to work, access to normal daily activities and social interactions with others are also severely restricted. All these factors provoke mental health issues like greater levels of stress and anxiety. This also diminishes physical health particularly for those who already struggle to maintain good health and wellbeing.
The two terms social isolation and social distancing are often used interchangeably but their meanings should be clearly differentiated and used in an appropriate manner. It may be more appropriate to mention “physical distancing” instead.

The impact of isolation and loneliness should not be under-estimated by the public and the authorities. The problem is particularly worrying for special categories of the society like children, people with pre-existing mental health problems and prisoners. The situation becomes grave in these people when they are deprived of external social contacts for a longer period. The decision makers need to take urgent action to tackle people’s social isolation related woes especially of those in a vulnerable situation.
During a public health emergency when priorities have to be redefined and public spending has to be urgently reallocated to develop effective interventions like infection prevention measures. However, concomitant addressing to the issues related to the mental and social issues early enough can widely contribute to limiting the long-term effects of the crisis.
Public authorities must utilise their capacity to meet people’s needs and address both the physical and mental health impacts of social isolation. In an era when digital technology is an integral part of people’s lives, the role of digital technologies in the health sector is being explored increasingly
Online medical consultations can connect doctors and patients in a virtual platform to ensure effective medical follow-up, which is widely compromised by confinement. The possibility for online discussions with a health professional or a psychologist is another definitive step that can reduce anxiety and panic and overcome feelings of powerlessness. Virtual thematic discussions and group activities offered by social workers can also help to combat social isolation. Especially the vulnerable people can be part of a collective where they can virtually meet and discuss their common worries and fears with others. In the case of children, teachers can also play an important role in the child’s socialization. Online classes as well as extra-curricular activities can help to meet children’s specific social needs.
Measures to combat people’s isolation, loneliness, anxiety and panic and active interventions improve their overall well-being. This must be an integral part of the successful reconstruction of our society. Then only people can return to their daily lives effectively and happily when some normality returns.