Fears social anxiety will rise with end of lockdown
ELDERLY WHO HAVE BEEN IN ISOLATION FOR A YEAR AT RISK
AS lockdown restrictions ease, concerns have been raised that social anxiety could increase as people emerge from a prolonged period of isolation.
From March 29, more social contact will be permitted, allowing gatherings of six people or two households will be allowed outdoors.
Anthony Donovon, director of Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland, said: “Many older and vulnerable people have not been able to meet with family and friends for the past 12 months because they have been told to shield and, as such, they have lived their lives in isolation.
“Sadly, some have lost confidence, becoming more needy and dependant.”
The charity said some elderly people will find it difficult to re-engage with the wider community and may need more support from family members than they did prior to lockdown.
Mr Donovon, said: “Those family members will, in many cases, still be in the workplace and not have the time to give the support needed.
“Others may not be natural carers and so unable to provide the type of assistance that may be required, such as personal care, or with more practical tasks such as cleaning and gardening.”
Clinical psychologist Dr Marianne Trent, from Good Thinking Psychological Services, said: “I’m concerned that as lockdown unfolds, people may feel pressure to get involved with things they’d actually rather not.
“For some, it will be hard to quiet the ‘threat brain’ and as a result, we may actually see a rise in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) type symptoms.
“It’s important to understand that with OCD it is actually anxiety and fear at the root of the problem, it’s just the OCD are the symptoms we see.
“Talk to others would be my main advice. If you’re asked to do something you’re not comfortable with in terms of risk, why not offer an alternative activity which you’re happier with?”
Age UK said specialist support must be given to those coming out of shielding.
Mr Donovon said: “We are in very different times and all of us are going to have to adjust to the new world in which we find ourselves.
“For some, and particularly those who are vulnerable, that is not going to be easy. The reality is some families will not have the time, skills or inclination to deliver the help needed.
“Now more than ever before there is a need for support agencies such as Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland, who can help alleviate some of the pressures.”
Call Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland on 0116 299 2266 or e-mail: