For many across the UK, the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions is a welcome sight. People have been longing for a return to some form of normality, being able to socialise with friends, play sports, go to bars has been at the top of peoples priorities list. However, for many others, the lifting of lockdown restrictions has brought on a wave of anxiety.
Not only are many still worried about the spread of COVID-19 which is of no surprise given the last year we have all had, but many are also feeling anxious as this is another big change and disruption to the life and routines they have created during lockdowns over the past year. Below are a few things to consider that can help ease anxieties:
Don’t be rushed
Everyone is approaching the lockdown measures easing differently. Go at your own pace, if you’re not comfortable with some things then take it slow until you feel ready.
Try not to completely avoid everything
As much as you should go at your own pace, if your own pace is to not do anything at all you should try to encourage yourself to take baby steps at a time to get back into things and gradually build your confidence up.
Get good information
If you are unsure of a certain restriction, check the government website for your area to confirm. Try to also avoid sensationalised news stories that can make you feel more anxious about things opening up again and make sure you use trusted sources for your info.
Share your concerns with others
Speak with friends or family about your concerns about restrictions easing. This will not only help you feel more understood, it will make those around you conscious of how you feel and they will consider this when with you.
Don’t overdo it
Make sure you set aside time for you to relax. Trying to ease yourself out of lockdown restrictions can be tough, so try to avoid booking in too many things to start with as you will soon miss your rest and down time.
Try to be aware of your thoughts
It can be easy to get caught up in a whirlwind of negative thinking which induces anxiety. Try to be aware of these thoughts and challenge them, are they right? Is there known evidence to say that thought is not reasonable? This can help you to reason with yourself.
Organise a social occasion
Having anxiety about the easing of lockdown and being invited to someone else’s occasion can be quite a daunting thought, as it may not be a situation you feel completely comfortable with just yet. Try to plan your own occasions, be in control of the location, what you’re doing, when and for how long. You can set the plans to something you are comfortable with then.
Focus on the now
During times of uncertainty it can be easy to be flooded with lots of ‘what if?’ questions. But it is important to focus on the present, what is actually happening and what you can control. Becoming worked up over a scenario that hasn’t happened yet doesn’t help with any anxiety.
More information
If you would like to view the Webinar on ‘Tips to look after your Mental Health as restrictions ease’ is being delivered live on Friday 16th July at 12:00pm, please use the following link to register for this session –
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/954798721390658576
If you are unable to join the webinar live, a recording of the session can be accessed using the same link above after the webinar has taken place.
If you feel you may need some support, you can contact Care first. Care first is a leading provider of confidential, professional counselling, information and advice services. All employees are eligible to use Care first, our services include; telephone counselling, information services and online support.
Call Care first on the Freephone number provided by your organisation and you can speak to a professional in confidence.