Seasons are changing, autumn is here, and many people are beginning to emerge from lockdown as businesses open and students begin the fall term.
Return anxiety, sometimes called re-entry anxiety, appears to be common in Canadians of all ages.
This anxiety can be triggered by concerns of infection, new social expectations, and new work/school routines.
Dr. Keith Dobson, a psychologist at the University of Calgary, offers these suggestions for decreasing return anxiety :
- Remember that feelings vary about returning to work / school.
For some it feels encouraging to leave remote work stations behind and connect again with those in their workplace/school, yet for others the prospect of increasing proximity to others is filled with uncertainty, discomfort, or anxiety. Recognize that everyone’s experience and pace is different, and have compassion for yourself and others. - Plan ahead about how you will renegotiate social norms.
Use the internet or telephone to find out what precautions are in place before going to a meeting, school, business, or residence.
There will be less anxiety if you have thought out a plan for how you can safely socialize with others, and have communicated it in advance to others. - Continue following public health advice so you can feel confident in your plans and decisions.
Public health guidelines are there to help us ease back into the world safely in ways that minimize risk as much as possible. - Recognize that different settings may follow different paths.
Respect these differences and the fact that different places will have different re-entry plans and timelines. - Use gradual exposure to help manage the return anxiety.
Start with small steps and slowly re-introduce yourself to situations that create some anxiety. - Monitor your signs of stress and anxiety.
Experiencing some stress and anxiety is expected when we confront new situations. However, if you are feeling uncomfortable symptoms that persist, it is important to use techniques that have worked for you in the past, or implement new/more strategies. Seek advice. Reach out for support. Talk to your health professionals.
Further suggestions on decreasing anxiety are
on the Tips Sheets at https://mentalhealthcommission.ca/covid19/
and at https://wellnesstogether.ca/en-CA.
If more stress management and self-calming training would be helpful, I have upcoming programs.
Take a second right now to let go of any unnecessary tension
and have an easy, comfortable breath.
Be kind to yourself.
Go at your own pace. Take it one step at a time.
For effective, practical strategies that enhance relaxation, energy, and health
check out the Stress Management & High Performance Clinic programs
at https://www.SelfRegulationSkills.ca.
Kathy Somers, R.Kin, BCB
Stress Smart 