EASY DOES IT

As the world begins to open up and we're able to do more, why are some of us more wary than others? And is that ok? We ask a clinical psychologist the best way to reset.

Humans are social animals, the majority are likely to want to get together and enjoy each other’s company.

Data not dates was the maxim used by the Government to create their roadmap out of lockdown in spring.

After more than three months of severe restrictions, including closure of all non essential shops, bars, restaurants, theatres, nightclubs, cinemas, football stadiums and anything else that brings joy to humanity, cautious steps were taken in April to release the nation.

But how quickly will we adapt to yet another ‘new normal’ backed on the one hand by an ongoing vaccine rollout and the fear of new variants on the other.

Dr Jennifer Kilcoyne is a consultant clinical psychologist with more than 25 years’ experience in mental health care. She is also clinical director at Mersey Care’s Centre for Perfect Care.

She says that because humans are social animals, the majority are likely to want to get together and enjoy each other’s company.

How quickly will we adapt to yet another ‘new normal’?

But for those who have anxiety, depression or have been isolating for most of the past year, any return to normal may be more of a challenge.

Using an analogy of a well known family game she says: “Anxiety is a bit like a Jenga Tower. Every time you avoid doing something that makes you anxious, the tower gets bigger and it gets harder to overcome barriers.

“But with each time you tackle something that could cause anxiety and you cope, you are taking a block off. It then gets easier to do it the next time.”

Dr Jennifer Kilcoyne

Dr Kilcoyne recommends easing yourself back into society in a graded way. Perhaps select one person to visit and just go for a short period of time before building up.

“Avoid doing anything stressful like taking public transport to start off with and be sure to take the usual precautions– carry hand sanitiser, wear a mask and do the best you can to feel safe.”

She hints that we might all be wearing masks for years to come.

We might keep positive aspects of life in lockdown like walks and calls to family.

“The anxiety and guilt we have all felt about this disease makes it different from other illnesses. Some people were asymptomatic so the idea that you might be contaminated by this disease and therefore pass it to other family members caused pervasive anxiety.”

But our innate desire and the infection prevention measures taken not to infect our nearest and dearest has had a positive outcome.

“We have dramatically reduced levels of 'flu and some other infections this year so we may find in the future that we decide to wear masks at work and in places like crowded supermarkets from November to March every year.”

A poll by the BBC in March suggested that we might keep some other positive aspects of life in lockdown including regular walks and online calls with family.

“It is so easy for us to slip into bad habits so it is best if we establish good routines. If you value something like a walk with a friend or an online chat with a relative you rarely see then schedule it into your week.”

Another positive is how quickly we have adapted to the digital world.

“We in the NHS probably implemented our five year digital strategy in about six months!” says Dr Kilcoyne with a smile.

“Having video calls with a therapist has been really helpful for some people, especially those with anxiety and depression. Not having to go out and spend money on public transport, parking or childcare has made it so much easier.

“There will always be a need for face to face appointments and for some people that is what works best, but for those who are happy to link up digitally that is one of the innovative things to come out of the pandemic.”

Returning to our lives may take some time but we are all in this together.

The Government has recognised the issues facing people with mental health difficulties and has pledged funding to help.

The Mental Health Recovery Action Plan, published in March this year promises to target groups which have been most impacted including those with severe mental illness, young people and frontline staff.

One thing is certain – the pandemic has caused distress and if you are experiencing that, you are not alone, says Dr Kilcoyne reassuringly.

“Recovery and returning to our lives may take some time but we are all in this together and can develop our resilience.”

For more information go to:

Mind: mind.org.uk NHS website: nhs.uk Mental Health Foundation: mentalhealth.org.uk

TOP TIPS

Dr Kilcoyne’s top tips for keeping well as lockdown restrictions ease

RECOGNISE THINGS MAY HAVE CHANGED and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. If you feel anxious move at a pace where you are comfortable

TALK ABOUT ANY CONCERNS with trusted others and arrange to do together if you need support

Try to have a CHANGE OF SCENERY

FIND A HOBBY or new interest

KEEP UP YOUR PHYSICAL EXERCISE and schedule in walks wherever possible

Find a way to SUPPORT OTHERS as this can also increase wellbeing

ESTABLISH ROUTINES and a structure to your life

TRY TO EAT HEALTHILY and ensure you get enough sleep and relaxation

Need to talk? Talk to us

Need help with stress, anxiety or depression? We can help.

You can refer yourselfonline by visiting talkliverpool.nhs.uk or calling 0151 228 2300, alternatively you can be referred by your GP or another health professional.