Remember when the hardest part about keeping up adult friendships was the scheduling ping-pong required to set up a get-together? Living through a global pandemic — complete with social distancing guidelines, and increased pressures from work and family — has made it harder than ever to give friendships the kind of care and attention they need to thrive. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
We’ve collected some of the best advice on how to lean on virtual tools, manage IRL get-togethers (safely!), and prioritize quality connections for your emotional — and physical — health.
Starting with a little tech support
Zoom Not Cutting It for You? Try Exploring a Virtual World
WiredHaving a place to socialize, even a digital one, can make connecting through a computer far more enjoyable—even if you think you don’t like videogames.
Coping with COVID-19: Ideas for Staying Connected in this Time of Social Distancing.
Gretchen RubinHere are some tips and observations about using technology to stay connected during physical distancing.
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How I Made New Friends During the Pandemic
VoxWhy keeping in touch with casual acquaintances is important, even in a pandemic.
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If You Miss Your Casual Friendships, Consider Starting a House Party Slack
ViceWhen we shrink our lives down to bubbles and pods, we lose access to the low-stakes connections that are good for our well-being. Here's how to fix that.
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If you’re looking to try IRL...
How to Form a Pandemic Pod
Greater GoodHere are some questions to ask as you expand your circle of care and cooperation during COVID-19.
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10 Socially Distant Date Ideas That Aren’t Just a Walk or a Video Chat
The Washington PostHere are 10 ideas for an out-of-the-ordinary social-distance date, in person or online.
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So, Can I Have People Over for Dinner Now?
CurbedFrom whether you should use disposable utensils to how to social distance outside, here’s our best advice for entertaining during coronavirus.
SaveAnd how to make sure you’re supporting friends emotionally, no matter how you’re connecting
How To Help Friends in Crisis Due To the Coronavirus
Fast CompanyEven if you can’t give your friend a hug, or take them out for dinner, there are ways you can help them cope during a difficult period.
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What to Ask Instead of ‘How Are You?’ During a Pandemic
The AtlanticEveryone’s doing badly. We need better questions to ask.
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Great Expectations: Friendship In The Time Of Quarantine
EssenceAs our internal work continues, friendships remain important. But carefully deciding who we allow close to us is critical.
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No Game Days. No Bars. The Pandemic Is Forcing Some Men To Realize They Need Deeper Friendships.
The Washington PostMany men have probably had a harder time than women figuring out how to adapt their friendships in a pandemic that is keeping them apart.
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How to Deal With a Friendship ‘Quiet Season’
The New York TimesYou might emerge from 2020 with fewer friendships, and that’s OK.
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