Topic Explanation:
The forum topic titled "Social Distancing: A New Reality in Our Surreal World" discusses the concept of social distancing introduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The original post reflects on the sudden increase in online activity by the poster due to the shutdown measures implemented to curb the spread of the virus. The poster also touches on personal impacts such as potential cancellation of appointments and general changes in daily life.

Helpful Insights and Advice from Replies:
1. Impact of Social Distancing on Social Life:
- Social distancing can be particularly shocking and difficult for those accustomed to regular social interactions. It represents a significant shift in how people conduct their daily lives, moving many interactions to digital platforms.

2. Government Policies on Pandemic Management:
- There is a critique of the 'herd immunity' strategy, which involves allowing a large number of people to get infected to build overall immunity, potentially at the cost of more vulnerable populations. This strategy is viewed critically by some as it could lead to higher risks and fatalities among the elderly and infirm.

3. Ostomy Supply Issues:
- The pandemic has led to hoarding behaviors, including essential medical supplies like ostomy products. One user shared a personal experience of almost facing a shortage but was reassured by their supplier who committed to reserving stock for regular customers. This highlights the importance of communication with suppliers and the challenges of managing medical supplies during a crisis.

4. Emotional Impact of Isolation:
- The enforced isolation and changes due to social distancing can lead to feelings of fear and loneliness, particularly for those who are geographically isolated or have limited access to essential services like healthcare.

5. Community and Support:
- Despite the challenges, there are instances of support within the community, such as suppliers prioritizing regular customers to ensure they have the necessary medical supplies. This emphasizes the importance of community support systems during crises.