As we begin easing our way out of lockdown many of us are excited to see friends and family and return to activities we have missed out on over the past year. However, some of us may find we feel anxious or stressed about doing things we have not done in a while, especially as we may have gotten comfortable at home in an environment we can control. It is important for us to not only expect these feelings but also realise they are reasonable. Just as it took us time to get used to life under lockdown, it will likely take us time to adapt to life changing again.
Anxiety and fear are likely to be common emotional responses as we begin the release from lockdown. While we gently build a tolerance to move through these fears, there are strategies you can implement to make the transition easier:
Pace yourself
Allow yourself to ease back into activities at a speed that works for you. Make sure you do not allow others to put pressure on you to try activities that still make you feel uncomfortable.
Build a tolerance
Try to keep challenging yourself as you ease back into life post lockdown. Make sure you make note of what you enjoy and be kind to yourself if it does not go well. If needed you can always find quieter times or places to do your activities.
Focus on the positives
Seek out the small positives that the easing of lockdown has allowed in your daily routine. It could be things like "getting to wander around the shops" or "having an excuse to wear something other than comfy clothes".
Talk to someone you trust
It may seem difficult to discuss how you are feeling and what you are experiencing with lockdown easing, but sharing this with someone you trust may be good. You might find someone who understands or just benefit from having someone listen and show they care. If you communicate your worries, you may find that other people feel exactly the same way.
Make time for self-care
As your diary begins to fill up with social activities make sure to make time for the well-being activities you enjoy by yourself. Whether it be yoga, gardening, or something creative, make time for it so you have time to recharge your batteries.
You can cope with change
Remember that this last year alone you have already adapted to a major change, you can do it again!
It is also important for those of us excited about the prospect of lockdown easing to remember that not everyone feels the same way. You can help by listening to people’s concerns, making sure to stay socially distant, and planning activities where people who are not ready for face-to-face meetings can still take part.
If you are finding yourself overwhelmed and anxious, we are here to help with a tailored programme of CBT techniques, behavioural experiments, and mindfulness exercises to support you.
Best wishes
Alexandra Miles, Fernwood Clinic Team
Read more article on emotional health from our blog
Anxiety and fear are likely to be common emotional responses as we begin the release from lockdown. While we gently build a tolerance to move through these fears, there are strategies you can implement to make the transition easier:
Pace yourself
Allow yourself to ease back into activities at a speed that works for you. Make sure you do not allow others to put pressure on you to try activities that still make you feel uncomfortable.
Build a tolerance
Try to keep challenging yourself as you ease back into life post lockdown. Make sure you make note of what you enjoy and be kind to yourself if it does not go well. If needed you can always find quieter times or places to do your activities.
Focus on the positives
Seek out the small positives that the easing of lockdown has allowed in your daily routine. It could be things like "getting to wander around the shops" or "having an excuse to wear something other than comfy clothes".
Talk to someone you trust
It may seem difficult to discuss how you are feeling and what you are experiencing with lockdown easing, but sharing this with someone you trust may be good. You might find someone who understands or just benefit from having someone listen and show they care. If you communicate your worries, you may find that other people feel exactly the same way.
Make time for self-care
As your diary begins to fill up with social activities make sure to make time for the well-being activities you enjoy by yourself. Whether it be yoga, gardening, or something creative, make time for it so you have time to recharge your batteries.
You can cope with change
Remember that this last year alone you have already adapted to a major change, you can do it again!
It is also important for those of us excited about the prospect of lockdown easing to remember that not everyone feels the same way. You can help by listening to people’s concerns, making sure to stay socially distant, and planning activities where people who are not ready for face-to-face meetings can still take part.
If you are finding yourself overwhelmed and anxious, we are here to help with a tailored programme of CBT techniques, behavioural experiments, and mindfulness exercises to support you.
Best wishes
Alexandra Miles, Fernwood Clinic Team
Read more article on emotional health from our blog
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