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Sometimes, I find myself in tears over it. “I’m not sure if I’m ready to go back,” I confide to my partner. “What if, when we finally have the chance to engage again, I don’t want to at all?” My struggle with significant social anxiety has intensified during the pandemic, which has provided a surprising layer of comfort from playdates and awkward conversations. The anxiety surrounding reopening is very real for me and for many others facing various anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, OCD, and depression.
What if I’ve forgotten how to interact with people? My ADHD complicates social situations; I’m often challenged by taking turns in conversations and sticking to the topic. Did the pandemic exacerbate this? Even if it didn’t, the mere thought of it is enough to trigger considerable reopening anxiety. A small voice whispers to me, perhaps I don’t want to return to those uncomfortable exchanges with other parents.
Reopening Anxiety Is Widespread
According to The New York Times, about half of us are apprehensive about reopening, as reported by the American Psychological Association. We are anxious about resuming face-to-face interactions, returning to meetings, and making small talk. However, a smaller group within that half experiences heightened concern due to severe anxiety, whether diagnosed or not; they may have OCD or simply be more introverted. Interestingly, this smaller group may not have suffered as much from isolation as others.
Personally, I’ve missed a few friends and felt for my kids — that’s probably the hardest part — but I haven’t found myself longing for social interaction. I still enjoy visiting my friend Alex’s garage weekly to smoke and watch TV. When my friend Jamie drops by every couple of weeks, it brings me joy, and I definitely appreciate those moments. However, I haven’t missed gatherings, casual chats, or meeting new people.
For those grappling with severe social anxiety, especially those prone to panic attacks, the pandemic may have offered a “respite,” as stated by The New York Times. We are individuals who find everyday social interactions not just draining but emotionally taxing. The thought of re-engaging with the world after a pandemic feels daunting for many who have grown used to their safe spaces.
“I’m genuinely concerned about many of my socially anxious clients,” shared Dr. Emily Carter, a psychologist in San Francisco, with The New York Times.
Reopening Anxiety Is Commonplace
What are the safety guidelines for socializing post-vaccination? The CDC asserts that my Moderna vaccine is 94.1% effective at preventing COVID-19. However, my children are yet to be vaccinated. Should I be as worried about social distancing for their sake when we go out? If we still need to wear masks and remind others that six feet means six feet, what’s the point of venturing outside?
I was never overly cautious with sanitizers, but since COVID-19, I’ve turned into a near-OCD sanitizer (as have many). I constantly tell my kids not to touch public surfaces, and I sanitize them when they do. I use my sleeve to open doors and pencil tips to push buttons. The pandemic guidelines may inadvertently amplify OCD tendencies.
How to Cope
Experts suggest that socialization is essential. To manage reopening anxiety, they advise starting small by connecting with a few trusted friends outdoors and ensuring that conversations don’t revolve around the pandemic. It’s also crucial to be selective about who we socialize with — are they people who help reduce our anxiety, like my friend from the garage, or those who heighten it, like certain parents I feel obligated to meet during playdates?
We also need to recognize that masks can hinder social interactions, making it tough to read facial expressions and social cues. For those of us already struggling with social signals, this adds another layer of difficulty. Moreover, masks can serve as constant reminders of the pandemic, triggering anxiety and creating a vicious cycle.
Psycom recommends creating a “game plan.” Write down activities that generate anxiety and rate them from one to one hundred. Then, select something in the 30-50 range to tackle. This way, you’re pushing your limits just enough to feel accomplished without becoming overwhelmed.
As we navigate reopening anxiety, it’s essential to proceed at your own pace. It’s important to keep moving forward, but don’t feel pressured to jump into large gatherings right away. Start with smaller interactions and gradually build up your comfort level. For those with a diagnosis or who suspect they may have one, maintaining regular contact with a therapist or psychiatrist can provide crucial support.
Don’t hesitate to express your feelings. It’s okay to be scared about returning to a semblance of normalcy. I enjoy the comfort of my bubble, yet I recognize the necessity of stepping outside it. Acknowledging these fears is a vital first step in overcoming reopening anxiety.
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In summary, reopening anxiety is a shared experience for many, particularly those who have faced social challenges before the pandemic. It’s important to approach social interactions gradually and be mindful of the emotional toll they can take. By acknowledging our feelings and taking small steps, we can better navigate this transition.
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