As lockdown is very gradually lifted, life is very slowly returning ‘normal’. It will be some time however before our normal lives are really as they were a few months ago. We are told to expect a ‘new normal’ as many of the restrictions and measures put in place to protect us continue to apply. It is natural to feel some sense of apprehension and anxiety about this ‘new normal’ and what the future may hold, but some will feel this more acutely than others.
If you are someone who has already struggled with anxiety, your feelings may have been compounded by the onset of the pandemic and the restrictions of lockdown. You may have found that even if you have not suffered from anxiety before, you are now feeling wary of venturing outdoors and resuming some of the activities we all used to take for granted. Either way, those feelings of worry and anxiety can be hard to shift.
After months of being told to be wary of others, keep our distance, don’t touch, wear a mask – things which we are still being urged to do – it is no wonder that some of us will be feeling anxious about venturing further than our own front doors. Some of us will prefer instead to continue to take refuge in our homes where things are under our own control – perhaps feeling unable to cope with the anxiety they feel when going out. In these circumstances, feelings of isolation and depression can develop easily and quickly, and may even develop further into a more persistent mental health condition such as panic attacks and agoraphobia (fear of going out).
The restrictions and precautions of the ‘new normal’ may exacerbate fears and feelings of anxiety – and some find they are simply not able to go out.
If you are feeling more anxious than you normally do about leaving your home, or if you suffer from anxiety generally, here’s what you can do to keep those feelings in check.
At Private Psychiatry we have helped many people overcome their fears and to develop ways of managing their anxiety so that it is no longer an obstacle to joining in with the rest of the world and enjoying life.
Anxiety is a natural response to uncertainty and perceived danger. After months of isolation, constant health warnings, and lifestyle changes, it’s common to experience heightened anxiety when returning to normal activities. Many people feel anxious about public places, social interactions, and safety, even as restrictions ease.
To reduce anxiety about going outside, take gradual steps: start with short walks or small social interactions, and build up your confidence. Use anxiety-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and grounding exercises. Having a trusted friend with you can also help ease the transition.
Yes, it is normal. Many people are experiencing anxiety for the first time due to the pandemic. Changes in routine, health fears, and uncertainty can trigger anxiety in anyone, regardless of their mental health history.
Effective ways to cope with anxiety include regular physical activity, a structured routine, relaxation techniques, limiting exposure to distressing news, and staying socially connected. If anxiety persists, seeking help from a therapist or mental health professional is often the best long-term solution.
If anxiety interferes with your daily life, relationships, or ability to function, such as avoiding going outside, experiencing panic attacks, or persistent fear, it’s important to seek professional support. Therapists and psychiatrists can help you develop strategies to manage anxiety and improve your quality of life.
