With the UK lockdown coming to an end, anxiety might be starting to show it’s hand. While it’s great that things are slowly going back to normal. For some of us, the thought of going back to normal and being around people again can feel very overwhelming. Due to the coronavirus, we’ve been in our own little bubbles. Not being able to go out very much and keeping our distance from other people has become the new normal. Something that once felt so normal, now to many of us, feels quite alien! As we can’t stay in our closed off bubbles forever as things begin to open after lockdown. How do we manage the anxiety surrounding being social again after the pandemic?
UK Lockdown – Go At Your Own Pace
Just because the UK lockdown is starting to lift, doesn’t mean you have to go all out and do everything at once. Listen to how you’re feeling at take it day by day. Step by step. If you don’t feel as though you’re ready to go out for a meal yet, then don’t. Perhaps instead you could have a picnic with one or two people in a quiet field instead. Slowly allowing yourself to get used to the idea of it again.
Remember it’s up to you what your transition from lockdown will look like. Add some activities back into your routine as and when you feel comfortable to do so. Be honest and open with your friends and family. If they ask you to do something and you don’t feel comfortable yet, let them know. They will understand if they care about you.
Returning To Work After The Pandemic
As more and more employers begin to open their workplaces again, this will be a huge change after working from home or being furloughed for so long. There will be some people who can’t wait to get back in to the hustle and bustle of office life. However, there will be many who are dreading the thought of going back to a busy office environment.
Obviously, your employer should have put all the Covid safe changes in place at your workplace. However, if you aren’t sure, make sure you ask your boss the question. Especially if it will put you at ease.
Ask questions such as. Can you go back in part time and work from home part time? Could you change your working hours if taking public transport in rush hour worries you? Will there be a staggered return to work? How will the communal areas work?…etc.
Seeing Friends & Family After Lockdown
Although some people have been seeing their friends and family (at a distance) as much as possible throughout the lockdown. For others, they’ve stayed apart as much as possible during UK lockdown. Being able to see your loved ones again, face to face is great. However, you might also find it strange at first. Especially when it comes to being able to hug them again after so long. Although hugging isn’t yet allowed here in the UK, it won’t be long before we can have physical contact again.
If it’s been a while since you’ve met other people, try having a trial run with one person instead. Build up your confidence little by little. Keeping your friends and family in the know about how you’re feeling will help too. If they know you’re feeling stressed due to the pandemic, they can help to make it as easy as possible for you.
Simple Steps To Keep Covid Infection Risk Low
- Meet outdoors.
- Meet in open spaces.
- Limit the number of people you meet in a day.
- Wash your hands before and afterwards.
- Don’t share items like food or cutlery.
- Follow social distancing advice for your area.
Going Out To Pubs & Restaurants Post Pandemic
With most pubs and restaurants now open for food and drink outside, there are a number of things you can do to keep as safe as possible…
- Go at a quieter time of day.
- Sit facing away from people you don’t live with.
- Use hand sanitiser.
- Use contactless payment.
- Go with a small group.
However, if you don’t feel ready yet, that’s fine. Give yourself time to get used to the idea of going out again.
Going Out To The Shops
You’ve probably done a food shop or two since being in lockdown. However, going to the shops in town could be a step too far for you. If you do feel ready to start going to the shops again, here are some tips that could help you feel more confident…
- Go first thing in the morning as soon as shops open.
- Wear your face mask.
- Wipe down the handles of your trolley or basket with hand sanitiser.
- Do one big shop instead of lots of small ones.
- Use a contactless payment.
Getting Mental Health Support
The coronavirus and being in lockdown have had a negative effect on many people’s mental health and wellbeing in general. It’s been a rollercoaster of a ride for the past year and a bit. Getting used to a completely new normal since the pandemic has taken its toll on a lot of people. Some more than others.
If you’re worried about your mental health, or are finding the thought of going back to some sort of normal again. There are many things you can do to help. Some of the best people to talk to about the UK lockdown, other than your friends and family are…
- Speak to your GP.
- Call the Anxiety UK helpline on 08444 775774
- Call the Mind Infoline on 0300 123 3393
- Visit the NHS mental health information hub
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