Feeling Re-entry Anxiety? It’s normal.

New month, new possibilities for Powerful, Positive Change. Summer is here, with longer brighter days and perhaps upcoming vacations?

For some, it signals promise and hope; for others re-entry anxiety: an uneasiness about returning to the ‘old normal’ of schools and offices, hugs and handshakes, and social gatherings large and small.

Yes, COVID-19 Re-Entry Anxiety is real, and it’s becoming prevalent as we slowly return to society. It’s difficult to imagine life as it used to be, isn’t it? Some are resisting the shift back to their old routine; others eager. At some point, we’ve got to get back to living. It’s the how that may be different and unique to each of us.

Here’s what experts say: “Re-entering the busy world will be a new type of stress, because we’re not used to it anymore,” said Elissa Epel, PhD, professor and vice chair in the Department of Psychiatry. “It simply has a lot of challenges embedded into it: being in traffic, getting to work on time, parking, managing family schedules, and having social interactions all day. Those are the small things that can add up to leave you feeling overstimulated or exhausted, making it an unpleasant transition.”

The solution? There’s no right or wrong way to handle re-entry, but consider these suggestions: communicate your needs, go at your own pace, and think of the changes as a way to build resilience. Focus on what you can control, set boundaries and accept what you’re feeling.

The other day I saw a quote that I’ve been pondering as I plan my summer, travel and my office policies. Here it is, let me know what you think of it.

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it’s faced.” -James Baldwin

I’d love to hear from you and your own experience with re-entry. Remember to allow for “space & grace” for yourself and others as we navigate life.

To Powerful, Positive Change…Cheers!