Are you suffering with POST-LOCKDOWN ANXIETY?

As restrictions are lifted around the UK, for many, returning to ‘normal’ is daunting

- NATASHA HARDING, MISHAAL KHAN

As lockdown eases and the UK begins to open up again, some of us might be looking forward to getting our social lives back.

But, for many, months of isolation, seeing very few people, exercising caution and venturing out only for essentials have meant we’ve got used to a slower rhythm of daily life.

With news that the government will subsidise eating out in August, we’re being actively encouraged to go out and spend to save the economy. But, for some, the thought of a new normal – with face masks and social distancing featuring for the foreseeable future – is overwhelming, especially as the fear of a second wave looms and we still need to stay cautious to stay safe.

A recent survey found that more than 60% of people feel uncomfortable with the idea of going to bars, pubs, restaurants and sporting events, as well as using public transport, and fewer than half of those in employment felt OK with the thought of going back to the workplace.*

Woman looks at the impact of the easing of lockdown on our mental health, and what we can do to help ourselves.

‘I WORRY ABOUT WHAT EASING RESTRICTIONS WILL MEAN’

Writer Natasha Harding, 44, lives in West Malling with her husband, Paul, 51, and their children, Zak, 14, and Lexi, six.

Although most people are rejoicing about lockdown lifting, it fills me with a sense of dread. Over the last few months, I’ve felt safe and in control at home, and I worry about what easing the restrictions means.

I’m not someone who has ever suffered from anxiety, but when the restrictions were first announced, I was so concerned about what was going to happen. Would I be able to buy my kids’ favourite foods? What would happen if I got ill, and how would I cope with homeschooling?