The long, hard months of lockdown are at last coming to an end, and as the UK opens up, we’re looking forward to getting back to normal life – or at least most of us are. For some, we’ve been locked down for so long that we’ve forgotten what normal life is meant to be. As the government outlines its roadmap out of lockdown, relaxes social distancing and companies indicate working from home is coming to an end, UK mental health charities are worried for those who will struggle to cope with anxiety. The issue of post-lockdown anxiety is arguably worse for those who have previously suffered from mental health issues. And, as Dr Tine Van Bortel of the University of Cambridge pointed out – whilst lockdown ‘gave us permission to stay at home’ that much-needed breathing space ending could trigger stress and anxiety in anyone.
This article will explore what anxiety is, and how to manage it as the world begins to open up.
WHAT IS THERE TO FEEL ANXIOUS ABOUT?
The sun is shining (some of the time), holidays are on the horizon, the government says soon we can hug people again, and from June 21st it is hoped that all social distancing requirements will be removed. All back to normal, right? For some of us that’s exactly the problem. The fear of Covid-19 runs deep, and many are understandably cautious about resuming close contact even with family and friends.
A recent social study into Covid behaviour by UCL researchers found that 53% of respondents were worried about the ending of social distancing while 57% were worried about Covid cases increasing. The end of the furlough scheme and worries about job security also feature highly on the anxiety scale.
But more than that, some are anxious about returning to the office and to social settings. Will I be able to find things to talk about with people I haven’t seen for months? Will I be able to connect with colleagues again after months of artificial Zoom contact? More importantly, what do I wear after months of lounging about in PJs and crocs? This question is not as trivial as it sounds because when you’re used to pleasing only yourself in the way you dress, how do you cope with anxiety which arises when you look in the mirror and draw a sartorial blank?
WHAT IS ANXIETY?
The emphasis on anxiety as a mental health issue obscures what for many are simple temporary worries. Should you class yourself as anxious? Our guide to anxiety, and the following tips on how to cope with anxiety, should help.
Anxiety is a feeling of unease, worry, panic or fear which can come over you when you think about certain events or it can affect you out of the blue for no particular reason. The NHS categorises generalised anxiety disorder as a long-term condition that causes you to feel anxious about a range of situations and symptoms can be mental and physical. They include:
- Restlessness or irritability
- A feeling of dread
- Feeling on edge and unable to concentrate
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Racing, strong or irregular heartbeat
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
The above are the most common symptoms but the list is not exhaustive. It must be stressed that if you feel your anxiety is getting out of control or is affecting your daily life in any way, please see your GP for help and advice.
COMING OUT OF LOCKDOWN – TIPS FOR MANAGING POST-LOCKDOWN ANXIETY
Just because the government gives the green light for Go doesn’t mean you’re duty-bound to throw yourself at the nearest party venue. If you’re ready for that then great but don’t feel that you have to pick up exactly where you left off pre-lockdown.
Just as it took time to adjust to the slower pace of life before it may take some time to adapt to a faster pace again. So take as much time as you need to cope with post-lockdown anxiety. Here, we offer a few tips.
1) STAY SAFE
This doesn’t mean treating everyone you meet as if they were a plague carrier but have confidence in the rapidly progressing vaccination rollout. Carry on washing your hands, social distance from people if it makes you more comfortable and continue wearing face coverings for the same reason and where it is compulsory. Do only as much as you feel comfortable with.
2) GET SUPPORT FOR YOUR RETURN TO WORK
Your employer should have appropriate Covid-secure measures in place such as hand sanitiser stations, screens, one-way walkways, whatever is needed for your particular place of work. Contact your manager or HR representative before your return to work date to ask if this has been done. Tell them if you’re struggling to cope with post-lockdown anxiety, specifically around returning to work and ask about the possibility of a staggered return.
3) RE-THINK TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Can you travel at off-peak times? Is it feasible to cycle, walk or drive yourself instead of taking public transport? Sometimes, being outside can help with mental health so walking or cycling may benefit you in this regard, as well as allowing you to travel alone. If you need to take public transport and the thought makes you anxious do some deep breathing meditation exercises beforehand or download a relaxation app to your phone and concentrate on that.
4) REMEMBER YOU’RE NOT ALONE
Many of us are in the same boat and feel stress, unprepared, confusion, afraid and yes, anxious, and this is perfectly normal. It’s fine to take time to re-adjust and re-boot your life. Be kind to yourself, try some stress-relieving activities, and make sure you’re eating well and getting enough sleep. These things can all help boost mental health. Talk to others who are feeling the same way – try online peer support. See the Mind community website to find a list of support services who can help you cope with post-lockdown anxiety.
If you feel you really can’t cope with anxiety, then look for extra help through local health services or online. Anxiety UK has some useful web-based tips on how to prevent anxiety overwhelming you.
If you feel very distressed and worry that anxiety may prevent you from a return to normal life, don’t forget organisations like The Samaritans (phone 116 123) can offer support and signposting. For serious feelings of self-harm, get emergency help either by dialling 999, attending A&E or contacting a local crisis team.
And finally, because as we know, the rules on Covid restrictions and the road out of lockdown seem to change regularly, it’s a good idea to consult the gov.UK website for the most up to date information.
Anxious woman photo created by freepik – www.freepik.com
Socially distanced friends photo created by freepik – www.freepik.com