COVID-19 hit 2020 like a battering ram. Our lives have undergone a dramatic change. We’ve been staying away from others, including loved ones, only leaving home for the essentials, and constantly keeping up with coronavirus news.

The pandemic has left a lot of us dealing with stress and anxiety more than ever before. As countries begin to cautiously re-open, and we start to think about returning to work, some of us are feeling fearful and anxious about going out. 

If the idea of heading back to work and socialising is stressing you out, these tips for dealing with post-COVID-19 anxiety might help.

Accept that your feelings are completely normal

Life is not the same as it was when we first started staying at home. We are not the same, and the way we operate and look at the world has changed. Many of us are experiencing financial difficulties, uncertainties, loss of routine, and significant changes in lifestyle. These things are challenging!

Know that any worries, stresses, and anxiety, including fear of going out, you feel are normal, and you are not alone.

Keep your consumption of negative media to a minimum

It’s important to stay informed about COVID-19 developments but try to moderate the amount of news you consume. Being bombarded constantly by negative or worrying news isn’t good for your mental state. Be discerning in the sources you read, watch, and listen to. Try to stick to reputable news sources and limit how often you check them. Let your friends and family know not to send you too much COVID news or other negative content if that’s fuelling your anxiety.

Manage stress

After working at home for several weeks, it’s going to be strange heading back to an office. Physically going to work could trigger anxiety of being around others and possibly getting sick. Try using stress-reduction apps, guided meditations, or deep breathing techniques to keep your anxiety in check while at work.

Make relaxation a daily habit

Combat the negative emotions you might be feeling with a regular relaxation practice. Practice yoga in the evenings, meditate, read, take a calming bath: set aside time daily to do something that puts you at ease.

Be informed

If you’re heading back to the office, make contact with your Human Resources department and find out what measures are being put in place for employee safety. Knowing there’s a plan to keep you safe could help to take the edge off your nerves. If you’re not comfortable, share your concerns with your manager.

Take things slowly

After weeks or months of being stuck at home most of the time, going out and being around people could be a challenge. This pandemic has changed the way we look at socialising and crowded spaces. If you’re fearful of getting out there, remember that it’s okay to take baby steps. For example, you could exercise with a partner at a park where you have lots of social distancing space before tackling the gym.

Focus on what you can control

You can’t control how other people behave, and you can’t control the coronavirus. It’s scary. Instead of focusing on variables you can’t influence, concentrate on what you can control. You can wash your hands frequently. You can wear a mask. You can maintain proper social distance from those around you. You can exercise, eat well, and look after yourself.

Write your worries down

Schedule a worry block. It sounds strange, but it could be useful, especially if you find that anxiety wakes you up at night. Set aside twenty minutes every day where you can focus on your worries. Write down the things that are bothering you and then brainstorm potential solutions.

We’re all in this COVID-19 struggle together and one day life will feel normal again. We hope these tips help.

Sources: Help Guide, Science Mag, Vox, WebMD