“Lockdowns have been heaven for me. [I have] severe social anxiety disorder and I feel pressure to perform and mingle.”
For introverts like Daniel, from Elanora Heights in New South Wales, COVID-driven social hibernation has allowed them to be in a safe bubble and thrive in their own element. So what happens when the bubble bursts?
Caroline Hunt, from the School of Psychology at the University of Sydney, says post-lockdown blues and anxiety about the return of face-to-face socialising is “very real indeed”.
“Everyone responds differently to increased social activity,” Dr Hunt told ABC Radio Sydney.
“While socialites like to throw themselves back into the social mix, people with social anxiety needs to pace themselves.”
If you or anyone you know needs help:
Many listeners sympathised, sharing their concerns over the prospect of reconnecting after lockdown:
“I work as a tutor, and we have been on Zoom for the past few months and we are going back to face-to-face learning tomorrow. I experience agoraphobia. I can’t tell you how nervous I am about leaving the house, much less the coast. I miss my friends and I worry I will fall behind socially, while I’m exhausting my inside energy.” — Kat, Gosford
“I have been having nightmares for the past two nights with threatening scenarios. I’m thinking it’s because of lockdown ending and the threat of COVID becoming closer. I’m not rushing to get out and meeting people just yet.”
Dr Hunt offers these suggestions that may help you to cope with planning your social life as lockdown restrictions ease.
Professor Caroline Hunt says the post-lockdown blues in common.(Supplied: Caroline Hunt)
Take baby steps
Dr Hunt recommends people with social anxiety gradually increase the intensity of their social interactions, as they come out of lockdown.
“Start off with situations where you feel safe with people you know well,” she says.
“That way, you are facing your fears but in a way that’s totally manageable.”
Consistency is also crucial in restoring confidence, as Dr Hunt suggests repeating social activities at a frequency with which you are comfortable.
“You should gradually build up the idea that you are going to be okay,” …….
Source: https://www.abc.net.au/everyday/guide-to-reconnecting-after-lockdown/100536190
