TIPS TO COMBAT RE-ENTRY ANXIETY

Take baby steps: Getting out is important as avoidance will always keep anxiety going. Little by little, set progressive small goals that will get you closer to what you want to do e.g. shopping and using public transport at quieter times, meet your adult children in well-ventilated rooms.

Breathe: If you do feel yourself getting pulled into an anxiety spiral, focus on your breathing. The simplest way to pull yourself back from that anxiety is to really concentrate on taking controlled, slow, deep breaths.

Start Now: We can get out of the habit of socialisation. Add this to your goal setting. Ask the hard question: Are you remaining more isolated than necessary? Then ask yourself this question: Is this the life that you want to live indefinitely? Answering this question can motivate you to start taking small steps back toward normal.

Support: Addressing fear and reducing re-entry anxiety is easier with a buddy who can both support you and hold you accountable. Get your husband and/or a friend on board, maybe someone who is struggling with re-entry anxiety too. If you need professional support, contact your GP or the Psychological Society of Ireland psychologicalsociety.ie or Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy www.iacp.ie