Good news most of the covid restrictions have been lifted and we are free to live our lives as we wish. For many this will be exciting news and life will start to return to normal. However, for some this may install fear and this perfectly understandable.
For over 12 months now we have been constantly reminded of how important it is to stay at home and stay safe so for some the thought of mixing with people, possibly without masks and social distancing, can be a scary thought. A recent survey showed that 60% of Britons are uncomfortable with the prospect of returning to bars and restaurants, using public transport or going to large gatherings.
For those that feel fearful of mixing with people again it's important to go at your own pace. You may need time to adjust to the new normal just as you may of needed time to adjust when the country first went into lockdown.
Here are some strategies to help:
Make sure you are eating and sleeping well. An unhealthy diet, containing high levels of sugar, can actually make us feel more anxious causing those highs and lows. A good nights sleep makes it so much easier to think logically and rationalise our feelings.
Initially meet up with one person at a time and gradually build up to more when you feel comfortable. Start by meeting outside and then when you feel happy meet with people indoors.
Tell people close to you how you feel. You may be surprised to find that those around you feel the same. Support from those close to you can be a big help.
Focus on the present rather than thinking too far ahead. We often start to worry about all the different 'if's', 'buts' and 'maybe's' when we look too far ahead and in turn start to catastrophise, causing us to feel anxious and stressed.
If there are things that are now part of your normal routine, as a result of lockdown, that you feel are better for you then stick with them, there's no rule that says you have to go back to how life used to be.
Hypnotherapy can help you deal with social anxiety enabling you to take back control and manage your stress and anxiety and feel more confident, whether it was a problem before Covid or is something new to you.
For more information on how hypnotherapy could help you contact Debbie on 07774061411, debroutly@gmail.com or visit debbieroutlyhypnotherapy.com