This week I spoke to Karl and Allison on the Today Show about the anxiety people are feeling as we exit lockdown. Many of us have been through more than 100 days of lockdown and if you’re in Melbourne, many many more. With restrictions finally being lifted, many of us are thinking, why do I still feel anxious, nervous and general unease? Why don’t I feel myself? Rest assured that unease is a normal, natural part of a change of this nature. 

This is an extraordinary time that we are going through. We’ve never experienced anything like it, so it’s going to take time to get back into the swing of life in this new normal. Here’s the advice I shared on the Today Show plus more, to help you to manage anxiety at this time. 

Dr Jodie’s Top Tips from the Mind Strength Method

1. Be kind to yourself

Whatever you’re feeling, it’s ok, so instead of trying to squash the emotions that you’re feeling and getting into fight or flight, treat yourself with kindness and compassion. 

Talk to yourself like you talk to your best friend. Ask yourself, what advice would you give your best friend if they were worried? How would you speak to them? 

2. Notice the worry stories

Worry is our brain’s attempt to get certainty when there is no certainty. Notice the worry stories and label them as worry. Awareness and acceptance are your superpowers! Awareness allows you to be conscious of your emotions and acceptance gives you the space to respond to those emotions with helpful actions rather than unhelpful ones. 

3. Gradually reconnect with people and activities you value

Take your time and run your own race…at whatever pace you want! Typical worry stories you could be experiencing are - I have to catch up with everyone, I have to get out to restaurants, I must go to the shops and if I don’t, I’m not good enough and I’m letting people down! Comparison and FOMO are classic worry stories. 

It’s more important than ever to listen to your own needs and set your boundaries before committing to social events. Be direct and clear in your communication to let people know what you are ready for - perhaps that’s just one or two social interactions to start with. 

4. Embrace wellbeing strategies

Here are three simple wellbeing strategies you can use to move from worry, stress and anxiety to effective action.

1. Eat well, stay hydrated - something as simple as drinking water regularly throughout the day can dramatically change your mood.

2. Move - exercise is a powerful tool for burning up the adrenaline. Any movement is better than nothing for helping to reduce the challenging impacts of anxiety.

3. Connect with loved ones - it doesn’t have to be face to face until you’re ready so try picking up the phone, sending a message or if you’re up for it, go for a walk to catch up with important people in your life. 

Watch Dr Jodie on the Today Show now and grab a copy of The Mind Strength Method for more strategies like this.