Content warning: The following story contains mentions of various mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, and OCD. Listener discretion is advised.

We’re in it for the long haul – self-isolation at home to try curbing transmission and “flatten the curve”. For some introverts, we learnt that our everyday lifestyle was actually called ‘quarantine’. Because humans are social creatures, social support helps a great deal during turbulent times of uncertainty. However, with social distancing in place, another invisible enemy emerges. Being stuck in confined quarters for too long brings about restlessness, loneliness, and mental health issues. How do we connect to our community even though we’re separated by space? Dr. Michelle Lim, senior lecturer in clinical psychology at Swinburne University of Technology, was on the line to explain.