Social Distancing is the latest buzzword to describe this new period of interaction, and though it may seem like less than ideal, Dr. Anup Kanodia says there are a great amount of benefits to this new normal. 

Ohio State University expert Sophia Tolliver explained in an article that Social Distancing doesn't mean to hide in your house, but does mean to both limit unnecessary events and travel, and to maintain at least 6 feet of distance between you and others. 

We talked with Kanodia, a central Ohio-based physician, says all the changes naturally cause fear and anxiety. 

“Most people I am seeing both in my private practice and talking to people, fear overwhelm, panic, says Kanodia via Skype. “And you know what, it's ok to feel that way, and we're all feeling that way.”

Kanodia specializes in functional medicine, his website describes it as type of practice that approaches healthcare from individual root causes. 

He's also helping people to keep informed and in good spirits with tips on his Facebook page and website. Kanodia says the big key to reducing stress during this time, is resetting expectations and preparing this temporary, but current reality. 

“My kids maybe with me till summer, that's a realistic thing,” says Kanodia, explaining how people can reset their perception of what's to come. “I may not get a job until june or july, or later? So how do I go with the flow and do the best that I can do.” 

The Centers for Disease Control says stress and anxiety are normal around a disease outbreak, and can cause a variety of symptoms including aches and pains, increased substance use, lack of sleep and other feelings and emotions. 

Doctors suggest that getting outside, limiting consumption of news and using online communication tools for meetings and chats are some ways to help.

“Facetime, Skype, for people that we can't see,” says Kanodia. “This is great for the elderly, they want to see their cousins or their grandkids, use Facetime, use Skype.”

 Kanodia says the additional stress of changes in routine and stability can take a toll. 

The Mayo Clinic and Harvard trained physician suggests that people accept the changes as they come and create new habits around them, and while at it, take time and ditch those bad habits.  

“This is a great time to reflect and slow down,” says Kanodia. “How fast are our lives? We are super fast in this country, this is a great time to get rebalanced.”

He also suggests working on communication, and shared, distant experiences for people the people you share a home with. 

“Set ground rules, figure out what each person needs and then figure out solutions for the home team,” says Kanodia.