Although we might feel physically isolated during the novel coronavirus outbreak, we are not socially isolated thanks to technology.
In fact, mental health experts are encouraging people to seek quality social support during this time, and keep in touch with others through video calls, texts or social media.
“It helps to share our thoughts and feelings,” said Dr. Katy Kamkar, a Toronto-based clinical psychologist.
Kamkar suggests that people in self-isolation virtually participate in social events with their loved ones, such as birthday celebrations or even dinner.
Even video chatting with co-workers is important because working from home can get lonely, and we all need social and emotional support.
Here are some video chatting platforms you can use to maintain connection, whether it be with family members or colleagues, while physically distancing during the outbreak.
FaceTime
What it is: FaceTime is a video chat platform available on Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads and Macintosh computers that run Mac OS X 10.6.6 and later.
Price: FaceTime is usually pre-installed on Apple devices and is free of charge. All you need is an AppleID, Wi-Fi and 3G or 4G connections.
Capacity: You can add up to 32 people at the same time using Group FaceTime.
Good for: The app supports any iOS device with a forward-facing camera and Macintosh computers with a webcam.
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