From Zoom to Room: Tackling Post-Pandemic Social Anxiety in the Beehive State

Hey there, Utah! Remember when we thought the hardest part of the pandemic would be staying home? Plot twist: for many of us, the challenge now is leaving home. As we continue to navigate our "new normal," a lot of us are dealing with what experts call "re-entry anxiety." If the thought of jumping back into social situations has you more stressed than a skier on a black diamond run, you're not alone.

Whether you're dreading that first in-person work meeting or feeling overwhelmed by the idea of large gatherings, we've got some strategies to help you navigate this transition with more ease and less "please-don't-make-me-go" energy.

10 Ways to Tackle Post-Pandemic Anxiety in Utah

1. Start Small You don't have to dive into the deep end of socializing right away.

Try this: Begin with low-key meetups in comfortable settings. Maybe a coffee date at your favorite local spot like Publik Coffee or a short walk with a friend around Liberty Park.

1. Set Boundaries It's okay to have limits on what you're comfortable with.

Try this: Practice saying, "I'm not quite ready for that yet, but how about we [insert alternative]?" It's not a "no," it's a "not yet."

1. Plan Ahead Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety.

Try this: If you're heading to a larger event, like a concert at Red Butte Garden, check their safety protocols ahead of time. Knowing the game plan can help you feel more in control.

1. Practice Self-Compassion Be kind to yourself as you navigate this transition.

Try this: When you're feeling anxious, try a self-compassion break. Put your hand on your heart and say, "This is a moment of difficulty. Many people are feeling this way. May I be kind to myself."

1. Maintain Pandemic Positives Hold onto the good habits you developed during lockdown.

Try this: If you enjoyed quieter weekends at home, keep blocking off some "me time" in your calendar, even as social obligations increase.

1. Reframe Your Thoughts Challenge anxiety-provoking thoughts with more balanced ones.

Try this: Instead of "Everyone will think I'm awkward," try "We're all adjusting to this. It's okay to take it slow."

1. Focus on What You Can Control There's still a lot of uncertainty, but focusing on what you can control can help.

Try this: Create a "control list." Write down what you can control (your actions, your responses) and what you can't (others' behavior, the future). Focus your energy on your "can control" list.

1. Keep Up with Self-Care Don't let increased social activity crowd out your self-care routine.

Try this: Schedule self-care activities like you would any other important appointment. Maybe it's a weekly hike in the Wasatch Mountains or a relaxing bath with a view of the Salt Lake Valley.

1. Seek Support You don't have to navigate this alone.

Try this: Consider joining a support group for people dealing with post-pandemic anxiety. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Utah chapter offers various support groups.

1. Be Patient with Yourself Remember, there's no "right" way to do this. We're all figuring it out as we go.

Try this: At the end of each week, reflect on one thing you're proud of, no matter how small. Maybe you went to a store you'd been avoiding or had a conversation with a neighbor. Celebrate your progress!

Remember, it's okay if your re-entry into post-pandemic life looks different from others'. We all have our own pace, and that's perfectly fine. The goal isn't to snap back to "normal," but to move forward in a way that feels right for you.

[Call to Action: Feeling overwhelmed by post-pandemic life? Let's talk it through. Schedule a session and we'll work on personalized strategies to help you navigate this transition with more confidence and less stress.]