Public Re-Entry Causing Anxiety in Adolescence
A simple trip to the grocery can lead to greater anxiety in adolescence. Just the other day, as I was walking down the aisles of my local grocery store, I found myself frozen in front of the ice cream section. A recurring thought kept bouncing around in my head, “What is going on?” I realized that most people were not wearing masks. Directional arrows were no longer providing guidance on the floors. Few people were social distancing. When did this start happening? The world as I know it seems to be making an attempt to get back to where it was prior to the pandemic, and I found myself resistant to the rollout. Not too dissimilar to my hesitation and uncertainty when restrictions were quickly put in place almost a year ago.
Media Causing Anxiety in Adolescence
Internet, news channels, social media, family and friends, coworkers, and peers all seem to have opinions, views, and conflicting information when it comes to COVID 19 and the state of the pandemic. It can be mentally exhausting to sift through the myriad of messages, emotions, and politics in determining what is best for me. I am acutely aware that my anxiety, stress, and overall fatigue continue to be present. It feels like rain-soaked clothes when caught in a thunderstorm. However, this thunderstorm continues with no clear end in sight. Even with the vaccine and more and more people receiving it, I find myself suspicious and dubious to the multitudes of people walking around the grocery store without masks. Am I the only one?
Anxiety is Treatable
The pandemic has reminded me that there is so much to this life that I do not have control over. My time in isolation has been experienced physically, emotionally, and mentally. I found it critical for me to make the effort to focus on the things that I do have control over. Ensuring that I make the time for self-care has been vital in maintaining mental and physical health.
Self-Care Activities:
- meditation
- yoga
- exercise
- resting
- reading
- engaging in entertaining television
- staying in touch with family and friends over screens and text
- eating responsibly
- finding ways to continue to contribute
I am keenly aware that this pandemic and taken its toll on millions of people regarding their mental health. The good news is that there are resources out there and people who are trained, educated and experienced to help those who are struggling with their mental health.
Contact us at True Health Center for Emotional Wellness today to discuss treatment options.