The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of us in various ways, including mental health. For young people, the pandemic has been particularly challenging, with many experiencing post COVID anxiety.

Post COVID anxiety is a form of anxiety that occurs a period of isolation during the pandemic. Many young people feel anxious about going back to their lives as normal and it can take a period of adjustment. They may also feel lost, frustrated and unsure of their identity, so finding their feet again will take time.

Understand that it's normal

It's important to understand that post COVID anxiety is a normal response to the pandemic. The pandemic has been a stressful and traumatic experience for everyone, and it's normal to feel anxious and worried about the future.

Many young people spent a considerable amount of time feeling sheltered in the safety of their own home, but now they are expected to re-enter the world as normal. This takes time. It was hard enough for adults, with fully developed social skills to re-enter normal life, so for young people, who have missed out on developing their social skills at a crucial time int heir development, it is much harder. For many, it may feel like starting again.

Encourage young people to talk about their feelings and reassure them that they are not alone. They are growing up in unstable times; it is important that they see this as a natural part of life and it happens from time to time.

Practice self-care

Self-care is crucial for managing post COVID anxiety. Young people need to take care of their physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that they enjoy – if you are a parent, you may need to help with this. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can also help to reduce anxiety.

Stay connected

Social support is important for mental health. Encourage young people to stay connected with friends and family as much as possible. Regular check-ins with loved ones can help to reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety. Young people have a lot of socialising to catch up on so they can re-establish themselves in their world. If you are a parent, encouraging and facilitating that process will really help.

Seek professional help

If post COVID anxiety is significantly impacting a young person's daily life, it may be time to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide support and guidance on how to manage anxiety and develop coping strategies. Encourage young people to seek help if they need it.

In conclusion, post COVID anxiety is a normal response to the pandemic, but it's important to manage it in a healthy way. By understanding that it's normal, staying informed but limiting exposure to news, practicing self-care, staying connected with others, and seeking professional help if needed, young people can manage their anxiety and build resilience for the future.

If you or a young person in your family is struggling with anxiety, please contact Psychotherapy Surbiton for more information or to book an appointment.