We are increasingly concerned about the mounting negative impacts of social distancing on the mental health and well-being of farmers and rural residents.

If we misbehaved as youngsters, many of us were told by our parents, “Go to your room,” which was a commonly used form of punishment at that time.  As teenagers, many of us can recall the sense of dread when our parents announced, “You’re grounded,” and took away the car keys or banned us from using the telephone. Taking away privileges or other forms of social isolation was an effective punishment for children and youth.

For many people today, social isolation or social distancing as a preventive measure to contain the spread of COVID-19 feels like punishment. The reactions to recommendations to practice social distancing is frequently met with the same emotional responses as being grounded or sent to your room. 

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