Post-lockdown Anxiety
It’s normal to feel anxious about lockdown ending.
Having spent many months in lockdown, living a quieter, simpler life has become our norm. We’ve developed new structures and routines in line with the restrictions, and whilst this has been challenging – for many of us this has presented a welcomed opportunity to slow down and enjoy a more mindful existence. Some of us look back at our 2019 diaries and – whilst lamenting the days of freedom and adventure – we wonder how we ever had the mental or physical energy to keep up with the pace of ‘normal’ life.
Just as we had to ‘pivot’ to adjust to lockdown life, there will be a period of adjustment as we transition to the new normal. After spending so long in lockdown, it is perfectly understandable that you may feel overwhelmed when faced with the task of dealing with crowds, noise, public transport, strangers and small talk. You might find yourself feeling anxious, exhausted or overwhelmed with the sudden abundance of choice.
At the same time, our social media pages are likely filled with photos of people we know who are our celebrating, partying, brunching, drinking – adding to the familiar (though strangely absent for the last 18 months) feeling of FOMO that tells us that everyone else is having a better time than what we are. The pressure to keep up is insidious and ever-present.
Follow the links below for some articles with more info about managing post-lockdown anxiety and the transition to ‘Covid-normal’ life, or reflect upon each of these suggestions and consider how you can practice self-care during this time of transition:
When restrictions lift in Victoria: How to reintegrate into society post-lockdown (smh.com.au)
- It’s OK to take things slowly. Don’t feel pressured to do everything and be everywhere all at once. One step at a time.
- Don’t feel pressured to go out and do things just because you CAN. Instead, take time to check-in with yourself and ask, what do I really FEEL like doing today? If what you feel like doing is going for a walk, reading a book, or watching TV – that’s perfectly OK.
- When planning your weekends, make sure you incorporate a bit of time for rest and recovery. Your body and mind aren’t used to having a hectic schedule of social events – treat yourself kindly