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<\/figure>\n\n\n\n- Know your limits. <\/strong>
The first step to easing post-pandemic anxiety when re-entering society is to know your personal limits. Before you jump into making plans, make a list of the activities that feel most safe and least safe to you. Knowing your limits will help you determine how to respond to invites and different situations. Prioritizing your own safety plays a huge role in your mental wellbeing, so be honest with yourself! As you branch out into more experiences, you can always reevaluate your list. Plus, it never hurts to be in tune with your own mind and body.
<\/li>- Communicate your feelings. <\/strong>
So your friends invited you out to dinner at a popular restaurant, but you\u2019d prefer a more private backyard gathering. Well, tell them! When it comes to your own comfort and mental wellbeing, communication with those around you is essential. Communicate your boundaries and preferences about re-entering social gatherings with your friends and family. Setting clear expectations makes it more likely they will accommodate your needs, or plan other events that are more comfortable for you.
<\/li>- Ease yourself into it. <\/strong>
There\u2019s no rush to run out and attend a crowded event. If you’re anxious about removing your mask in public, start with smaller gatherings first. Know that post-pandemic anxiety can creep up at any time, and that\u2019s totally normal. It\u2019s a good idea to bring a face covering with you, just in case. If your anxiety prevents you from enjoying the moment, that\u2019s a good sign to take it a little slower.
<\/li>- Talk to your doctor. <\/strong>
If you\u2019re concerned about safety as you re-enter the world, your doctor is a great resource for easing your post-pandemic anxiety. They can help you make informed decisions about when you should still mask up. Your doctor knows your health best, so they can help ease anxiety specific to your experience. Plus, doctors have the most up-to-date research and information on how to keep you healthy.
<\/li>- Practice regular self-care. <\/strong>
One of the best ways to combat anxiousness of any kind is to make time for regular self-care. This is especially true for post-pandemic anxiety! Stress has so many negative effects on both our physical and mental health! It\u2019s a good idea to schedule regular check-ins and self-care sessions, especially when you anticipate more anxiety than usual. Self-care for anxiety can look like: 10-minute meditation sessions, journaling, regular massage appointments<\/a>, a spa day, or a calming yoga practice. If going to a spa seems like an anxiety-inducing event right now, in-home massage and facials are a good option!
<\/li>- Find a social buddy. <\/strong>
Pair up with a friend or family member who has similar preferences and hobbies. Rather than worrying about your post-pandemic anxiety, you\u2019re more likely to feel happy about going out and doing things you love. Plus, it’s always easier to have fun when you’re with somebody you enjoy spending time with!
<\/li>- Stop comparing yourself. <\/strong>
It\u2019s hard to ignore all the fun parties, concerts, and big gatherings you see on social media. But you shouldn\u2019t feel pressured to do things you\u2019re not comfortable with yet, just because others are posting about it. Take re-entry at your own pace, without comparing your experience to others, especially on social media. If you\u2019re having trouble tuning it out, try taking a brief hiatus from social media. Use that time to focus on your own self-care and growth, rather than on your post-pandemic anxiety and FOMO.
<\/li>- Carry proof of vaccination. <\/strong>
Some settings may require you to show proof that you\u2019ve received a vaccine in order to remove your mask on the premises. Before you leave the house, check with the venue to see if this is something they are offering, and bring your vaccine card or other proof from your doctor’s office with you if you\u2019d like to remove your mask.
<\/li>- Check your local mandates.<\/strong> Being prepared is a great way to relieve anxiety. Not all cities and states are ready to do away with masks completely. Before you venture out, check your local guidelines to see if masks are still required for the activities you\u2019re planning. For example, a face-covering may be required in your area for entering a healthcare facility or taking public transit.
<\/li>- You can still wear a mask. <\/strong>If you\u2019re not ready to face the world without a mask yet, you can still wear one! <\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Preparing yourself for stress-free social gatherings<\/strong> in the post-pandemic world<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The last thing your social events should be is stressful. As you get ready to start doing more normal social activities, it\u2019s important to prepare yourself mentally and physically to prevent post-pandemic anxiety. If you haven\u2019t gotten back into a regular self-care routine, now is an excellent time to start! To keep your self-care experience stress-free, take advantage of on-demand and in-home wellness services. When you book a massage with Soothe, for example, a certified massage therapist brings everything right to you, in the safety and comfort of your own home. Avoid crowds, traffic, parking, and anxiety that comes with yet another social re-entry with Soothe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Communicate your feelings. <\/strong>