Anxiety about lockdown lifting

[Lencoboy]

I think we need to accept that we all have different emotional needs and it's ok not to want or need social contact.

Some people don't want to be hugged..It's not a crime or a defect-it's personal choice and should be respected. I always remember my son saying that he'd rather stab himself than have me hug him. It's an invasion of personal space for him but I get that and appreciate him telling me how he feels.

I think it's more important to be aware of people's choices and to understand and abide by them without bringing personal opinion into the equation.

Your last paragraph is exactly what I said at the end of my response to PM's post upthread, in the sense that it's still a free country and those who still feel too scared to leave their homes are quite within their rights to, but on the other hand there are still plenty of other (non-Covid-related) untoward things that can happen in everyday life, such as car crashes, being run over by buses or big hulking trucks, having trees or structures suddenly collapse on us, etc, which a lot of us don't even think twice about most of the time.

I try to be reasonable and see both sides of the argument.

[fishman65]

I think it's probably important to take a step back and have a think about the reality of lockdown.

It has been widely reported that people have suffered greatly in terms of their mental health, and that human beings are social creatures.

I've never been massively social, I've never needed a wide circle of friends, but that doesn't mean I never socialised, quite the opposite. I used to be 'out' all the time when I was younger and the first time I lived alone I realised how lonely I was. Oddly, it was during the time I was living alone that my first bout of serious panic hit me, like a ton of bricks. I was able to notice the change, from feeling lonely and wanting to be out with people to being a complete hermit and not even wanting to leave one room. That only took 3-4 months.

In some respects I think lockdown has been a stealth bonus for a lot of anxiety sufferers as it allowed the agoraphobia to become normalised. I know for myself I absolutely made sure I was out every day (permitted) and I was the one that went shopping when needed, just in case I started slipping back into old habits.

Although I can understand the anxiety of going back to normal, it does have to happen. We do need to be out in the daylight, interacting with other people. Not doing so is a problem, even if you feel it's more beneficial.

I totally agree with this Joe. I feel the need to push back on my social anxiety/agoraphobia, too much avoidance, whether by choice or enforced by circumstances is never good for me. There have been times, particularly in this most recent lockdown, that I've thought 'wow I'm doing so much better with my anxiety'. Actually no, its just I'm not being tested. There's a big difference.

[Scass]

I agree, but you're missing my point. Not having interaction with anybody isn't good for you at all. Even being in lockdown with 3 other people (me) isn't enough.

I’m not a very social person anymore. I like people, but I don’t really enjoy socialising. I enjoy my own company but I don’t like being alone.
I’ve noticed how quiet I’ve become in lockdown, there’s not much to say, but my anxiety is loud. But more worryingly, my 7yo was also getting quieter and I was struggling to find things to talk about sometimes. She’s back at school and we’re getting better at it. She comes home full of conversation and enthusiasm. I miss that about myself too, it’s something I know I have when I’ve seen my friends or family.

So, it’ll be scary, but I’m looking forward to doing the things that are good for me and my family.


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[whispershadow]

I'm looking forward to being able to do my hobbies again, personally.

[Fishmanpa]

I'm looking forward to being able to do my hobbies again, personally.

I hear you! We're going to look at a litter of puppies we were approved for on Saturday. They're a shepherd/border collie mix. We want a female and there are 4 to choose from. They're 9 weeks old and we think it would be the best scenario for our cat. He could and will teach her the ropes. My wife walks/hikes typically 3+ miles a day and I've been pretty sedentary since the pandemic. As much work as it will be to train a puppy (we'll be taking her to classes), it will be good motivation to get out and exercise. I moved to this area due to the mountains and parks and it will be good to get out and enjoy them with a furry friend

Positive thoughts

[pulisa]

That's sounds a really exciting "project", FMP! Are you going to call your new addition "Melania"?

[Scass]

I hear you! We're going to look at a litter of puppies we were approved for on Saturday. They're a shepherd/border collie mix. We want a female and there are 4 to choose from. They're 9 weeks old and we think it would be the best scenario for our cat. He could and will teach her the ropes. My wife walks/hikes typically 3+ miles a day and I've been pretty sedentary since the pandemic. As much work as it will be to train a puppy (we'll be taking her to classes), it will be good motivation to get out and exercise. I moved to this area due to the mountains and parks and it will be good to get out and enjoy them with a furry friend

Positive thoughts

Ahh how lovely! We had a border collie mix. Such a clever, fabulous dog. And yes they love exercise. Fingers crossed for you.


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[Fishmanpa]

That's sounds a really exciting "project", FMP! Are you going to call your new addition "Melania"?

Ha! I'm not rich enough to buy that name The one I really like is currently named Valentina. We'll see what happens....

Ahh how lovely! We had a border collie mix. Such a clever, fabulous dog. And yes they love exercise. Fingers crossed for you.

One day at a time... The adoption process is rather challenging with so many people looking, especially during these times. The female litter mates are equally cute but Valentina has absolutely beautiful markings.

Positive thoughts

[Pamplemousse]

We need pictures when possible

[pulisa]

Oh yes please! I've never owned a dog but know how therapeutic they can be.