The rollback of coronavirus safety precautions may be exciting news for some, but the new normal is also causing stress for those who took comfort in social distancing and wearing masks.
It can feel uncomfortable for many people who have been wearing masks for the past two years to suddenly change their behavior. The Ross Center’s clinical director, Greta Hirsch, PhD, PMH-C, suggests to Health that individuals take a step-by-step approach to returning to pre-covid protocols. “If someone hasn’t had anyone over at their home or gone out and met up with friends, I would say maybe start with meeting a friend in the park and taking a walk, or invite friends over for dinner before you’re ready to go to a crowded concert.” She recommends that you identify your anxious thought patterns, and try to stay focused on the present.
Read more here: Health: How to Manage Anxiety as Mask Mandates End