Here we are, almost into June and the world is just now slowly reopening. Depending on where you live, you may just have started tip-toeing out of the house or you might already be a few phases into local reopening plans.
No matter where you are in the process, you’re most likely dealing with at least a little bit of anxiety and uncertainty. We’ve been inundated with information for months and many have spent weeks, if not months, inside their home. Getting back out into the real world will be a difficult transition especially with uncertainty swirling about.
If you’re feeling some major anxiety as you prepare to return to “normalcy”, just know you’re not alone.
A poll of more than 3,100 individuals in the past week provided some very interesting stats:
- 26% of individuals said they felt a sense of trauma from COVID-19
- 25% were afraid to go to the store
- 15% were afraid to leave their house
- 77%, however, had not sought counseling
Here are a few ways to begin to prep yourself to get back out into the world and reduce your anxiety along the way.
Identify the Root of Your Anxiety
Recognizing anxiety is the first step, diving deeper to understand the root of that anxiety is the next step. Yes, you may simply be afraid of re-entering society in general, but try to hone in on what exactly your mind is telling you, then you’ll be able to create some positive mantras that combat those thoughts to repeat to yourself throughout the day.Reconnect At Your Own Pace
As your specific city begins to move through each of their phases of reopening you’ll be able to connect with more individuals in person, safely. But, what do you do if you’re too nervous to connect in person? That’s ok! Be honest with friends and family about your apprehension to connect in person and suggest ways to continue to stay connected virtually. Individuals who really love you will respect your boundaries and support your journey with encouragement.Ask for Help
I know I’ve said this a million times, but I’ll say it a million more times - prioritize therapy!! Mental health is even more important than ever as we all continue navigating each changing day. Talking with a trained professional can help you find the root of your feelings and learn strategies to help you navigate. Find a therapist in your area that you can connect with via teletherapy or over the phone so that you can continue your therapy in person once you’re ready.We are all going through a very tough time and need to focus on showing extra grace to ourselves and others around us. If you’re feeling anxious about the days ahead and don’t know how you’ll ever be able to get back out into the world, please email me at leemiller.therapist@gmail.com or call my office at (310) 614-0323. I would love to help you put together a game plan to overcome your anxiety - at your own pace. Let’s work together to make sure fear and anxiety don’t become pandemics in and of themselves.
