There is certainly a need to physically distance as we protect ourselves and others from infection and stop the spread of COVID-19. It is crucial.

BUT we need now, more than ever, to remain social - to stay connected as a community in new ways.

We want to encourage everyone to petition to change in the language we use around distancing, making the concept easier to understand for everyone. 

"Physical Distancing" not "Social Distancing"

We must maintain physical distancing wherever possible, but maintaining social connection is so important as we self isolate, to be able to support ourselves and others in our community. This includes the disadvantaged and vulnerable and those living with mental illness, or who may be now experiencing mental health issues as a result of isolation.

Get online, make that call, send a text, set up a group chat with friends and family, simply smile or wave at someone AND sign this petition so that the message is clear for all.

As an orgainsation who continues every day during this crisis to assist those who are vulnerable or experiencing mental health issues, we need people to understand that isolating physically should not mean that we are distancing ourselves socially. Connection with others is more important than ever.... we just need to adapt and find new ways to make it happen.

“Social distancing is vital to slowing the spread of COVID-19, but it also pushes against human beings’ fundamental need for connection with one another,” Jamil Zaki - Stanford University professor of psychology 

Help us petition for physical distance and not social distance. This will become the new language if we all join together to petition for change.

Feel free to comment on how you are staying socially connected, and please pass this on to all of your family and friends so that they can become part of this important change.

www.parramattamission.org.au