We’re close to normal for more than a year with the widespread success of COVID-19 vaccines. I can’t wait for friends, family and strangers to gather again freely. However, some of us are concerned about life after pandemics. The question is whether it will be normal or whether we will have to adjust to another new normal?
Post-Pandemic Anxiety Is All About Change
Most of us are now pandemic pros. Over the last year, before leaving the house, we mastered telephone, wallet, keys, ritual mask. We timed our wake up just one minute before a Zoom meeting began. We have worked on YouTube or at gymnastics with masks in our homes. We cut our own bangs and baked our own bread with sourdough. That’s our new standard.
We have long sought to end the pandemic, but in fact, we have been familiar with it. When we return to the office, what are we going to do? What are we going to do if we again have social responsibilities? It even feels odd to imagine. So much uncertainty needs to be addressed. When change happens, even if it’s a welcome change, it can feel uncomfortable. You’re not alone if you’re worried about post-pandemic life.
A Strategy for Reducing Post-Pandemic Anxiety
You can start preparing for and transitioning to a new normal, where you can hug your grandparents and go to parties, right now. Even though COVID restrictions will be lifted, life will not return to normal. We’ve all experienced collective grief as a result of what the pandemic has taken away from us. This experience has become a part of us, both individually and collectively.
One thing you can do is think about your COVID life. Set aside some time to reflect and jot down your thoughts (written, through voice recording, or by video). What have you discovered during this period? What are some of your most cherished memories? What was it that made life difficult? Then look ahead: what are you looking forward to? What exactly is making you nervous, and why is it making you nervous? This method of organizing your thoughts wraps words around complex emotions, making them feel smaller.
The next step is to gradually raise. You don’t have to go from not seeing anyone to attending a massive music festival all at once. Begin by hanging out with a few friends. Regain your social confidence one small gathering at a time.
It is entirely up to you how quickly you adjust to your new normal. If you feel awkward doing social things again, don’t criticize yourself; it won’t get you anywhere. Enjoy the transition period, and laugh when a COVID habit resurfaces. Take solace in the fact that the entire world is entering this unknown phase at the same time.
