4 Tips for Post-lockdown Anxiety Management


Did you know? Approximately 45 million Indians suffer from anxiety disorders. WHO has also termed it one of the biggest populations affected by mental health issues. The on-going stigma around mental illnesses in our country makes it hard to normalise these very real issues. Now more than ever, as we transition out of the lockdown we need to be more sensitive to those with anxiety about getting back into the real world. Unfamiliar situations or change in routine are common factors that cause anxiety to act up. In this blog, SMBT would like to guide you through these trying times, with a few tips.

  • Start with baby steps 

A few weeks before you’re going back to work or college or out to meet people, try to connect with them over a call. Host a zoom call and get comfortable with them again, before you have to meet them in-person. If it’s the outside environment you are apprehensive to get back to, try to go out for a short period of time, maybe for a walk in a safe area or go grocery shopping with the necessary safety precautions. Get yourself used to being out of your home again in little ways, safely. 

  • Visualise 

The power of our mind often goes undiscovered by most of us. The weeks before you have to leave your home, try to visualise good conversation with other people, visualize yourself outside, having a good time. Train your mind to understand that everyone’s just as out of touch with the outside world as you are and take comfort in the fact that they might feel the same way as you do. Imagine an awkward but funny or a comfortable conversation with anyone you may encounter after you get back out into the world. 

  • It’s okay to be nervous!

Don’t try to hide or suppress your nervousness. When you’re feeling anxious, it is best to allow yourself to feel. Breathe through the racing emotions and help yourself calm down. This will also help you set proper boundaries. You are not obligated to socialize with everyone. If you know it makes you anxious, it is okay to keep to yourself. Asses and be respectful of your own limits.

  • Self-care is the best care

This brings us to our next point. It is extremely important to look out for yourself. You are your first priority. It is not selfish to cater to your own needs before those of others. Manage your anxiety with therapy, keeping a journal, talking to friends and family and any other way you know that calms you down. Keeping yourself grounded can help you be in a calmer state of mind to take on unfamiliar situations.

We hope that these tips help ease your transition back into the outside world! Share this with a friend or family member who may need this.

Sources used:

- https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/what-india-must-do-to-solve-its-mental-health-crisis - https://www.healthline.com/health-news/5-simple-tips-to-help-manage-social-anxiety-after-leaving-lockdown

SMBT Group of Institutions

Author & Editor

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