As I write this, Boris Johnson has just formally announced the next set of changes to the current lockdown rules. It’s apparent that the easing of lockdown is ramping up. For some perhaps not soon enough and for others too quick to comprehend.
At the beginning of lockdown, I posted: Why Your well-being matters most right now and I feel compelled to address this subject again today, especially now the way out is in sight. I’m acutely aware that for many (myself included) the thought of coming out of lockdown can be just as anxiety-inducing as it felt going into it.
If I can speak personally for a moment…
Entering lockdown was scary, it was unknown. The most stoic and grounded people in my life were worried. This in itself heightened the alarm bells ringing in my own head. There were so many questions, but hardly any answers available. All I could do was breathe, take things one step at a time and try to remain as much in each moment as possible.
Honestly, as I’m sure many will appreciate, it has been exceptionally difficult. As much as you might want to be the calm ship in the storm, the COVID-19 waves are going to move you. Now, I wouldn’t say I like lockdown but I would say I’ve adjusted to it. I’ve formed a comfort bubble. Maybe you have too? And although I’ve settled into it, as I have no control over world events (or the government) I now feel like I’m being served notice of eviction from this bubble. Being real with you, I’m not ready to leave yet.
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My anxiety is rising, not just emotionally but physically too. I’m sharing this not to seek sympathy or worry anyone, but because I realised that if I say it and share it, it might help you (if you’re also feeling this way) to realise you’re not alone in feeling anxious about the lifting of lockdown.
I genuinely thought I would feel like throwing the biggest party once this was over, and whilst I do want to celebrate eventually, I can’t bring myself to right now. I’m finding I just can’t process things fast enough or at least at a pace to keep up with the changes unfolding. So I’ve decided the best course of action for adjusting back is to try to set my own pace as much as possible.
It’s important to me (and my well-being) to take time to respect all the hard work and sacrifices key workers have made to get us through this crisis. I personally don’t want to rush into everything again and feel like I’m contributing to the undoing of all their good work. I want to reflect and process what we’ve been through as a family, how it’s impacted us and how best to move forward. Although the world is saying jump right now – we can still decide how high.
If you’re feeling in any way anxious about coming out of lockdown, allow me to share some advice which may help manage post-lockdown anxiety…
Go at your own pace too. I appreciate economically you may have to make changes before you’re ready to make them but where you do have control, make your own choices.
Try not to think 5 steps ahead when in reality you may only need to concentrate on the first one. Overwhelm can be debilitating and trying to process too much at once is not going to help your anxiety. Take steps forward, even if they’re baby steps and you might be pleasantly surprised.
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Respect that everyone is unique and has their own thoughts, feelings and experiences having lived through this global pandemic. Respect others’ boundaries – allow them to go at their own pace too. It’s absolutely OK to say no to something if it doesn’t feel right.
Make maintaining any good practices you adopted during lockdown a priority coming out. Keep up the exercise, incorporate mindful moments to ground yourself, sleep! Whatever you found has helped increase your sense of well-being keep going with it, it will still prove valuable.
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Talk openly to friends and loved ones about how you’re feeling. People can be much more supportive when they have the full picture.
Also, if you catch yourself dwelling about what’s to come, just pause and say the mantra “I’ll handle it’, because you will.
RELATED: Positive affirmations for use anytime and anywhere
From the beginning of lockdown and even now, It’s still OK not to have all the answers…
Just remember you got through the lockdown and you’ll get through whatever is to come. Have faith in yourself and treat yourself with love and kindness. It will encourage those around you to do the same. Keep going – you will (we will) get there!
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How are you feeling about coming out of lockdown? How will you manage post-lockdown anxiety? Do you have any thoughts, tips or words of encouragement to share? If you need additional help and support, MIND the charity for better mental health has a wealth of resources you can access here
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Okay, I really hope I can do this article justice with this comment…
Thank you, so MUCH, for writing this. As lockdown is lifting my anxiety has grown. I relished lockdown… I loved the security of being home in my own bubble. I felt guilty for that as I knew many were struggling with it. But I am now struggling with lockdown being lessened … And feeling guilty again.
I have wanted to write a post about this myself but have been concerned that it would be a controversial subject as most people can’t wait for lockdown to be a distant memory.
I know that, for the nation it is a good thing. But I am grateful you have shown that I am not the only one who is needing some extra time and care to adjust to the concept of ‘normalcy’ returning.
Thank you
Kim x
I’m sorry to hear you’re feeling the same way, but am pleased to hear sharing this experience has helped in some way. Hopefully others will appreciate It’s not that we want it to continue (although there are things I really will miss) it’s just that we need extra time to adjust back. I hope you have lots of supportive & understanding people around you who will give you the space to go at your own pace. Thanks for sharing your thoughts & feelings xx
Even though I love the idea of coming out of lockdown, I’m struggling with its implications on everyday life and behaviour. Sometimes I think the anxiety about it is affecting me physically, too. Thank you for this helpful advice, Alex.
Thank you for sharing your experience & feelings too. I hope you manage to be kind to yourself & your anxiety eases as you move forward again xx
I think most people have gone through the whole rollercoaster of emotions while in lockdown haven’t they? On the whole, I haven’t been too bad, but there have definitely been days where I’ve struggled. The sleeping thing is the worst for me. I downloaded the Calm app and Headspace to help me sleep and counting breaths has seen this ease a bit, but it’s obviously underlying anxiety there. And then – as things start returning to normal, there’s underlying anxiety about the new normality – and of course, a second spike. We’ve learned a lot in 2020 – a lot of it positive, but roll on 2021 and let’s hope it’s better for everyone xx
Yes absolutely agree with you on that! Glad you haven’t been too bad and that the apps have helped. Thanks so much for reading & sharing your thoughts xx
This post is so relatable as I, too, was feeling anxious about coming out of lockdown. But now things have started easing even more, myself and the rest of my household have been told we have to self-isolate for 14 days as one of us has an important medical appointment coming up. So I’m struggling with the fact that everyone is gaining more freedom and I seem to be more restricted than ever, but I know I’m probably not the only one in this position. Your words that: “you can get through whatever is to come” has really helped. Thanks Alex!
Thanks for sharing Gemma & yes I can appreciate that this is frustrating for you, one of my extended family members has a similar experience and I know how they are feeling similar. I’m so pleased those words helped, and I hope the time passes quickly for you and your family x
I’m sorry that your family member is going through a similar situation, but it’s also nice to know that I’m not alone. Thanks so much Alex. It seems to be going pretty quick so far 🙂 x