Ready for the pandemic to end, but also you may also be dealing with post-pandemic anxiety?

You’re not alone.

Here are coping tips.

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I want normal life more than anythingso why does the potential of exactly that make me squirm?

Its understandable if people are anxious about what might happen next, saysAimee Daramus, PsyD.

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Chicago-based psychotherapist

In other words, hope is a scary thing to have.

The mere thought of yet another slew of changes is disconcerting.

Carla Manly, PhD

But fear of disappointment isnt the only factor propelling my post-pandemic anxiety.

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The mere thought of yet another slew of changes is disconcerting.

The benefits have been tremendous for some people, says Dr. Manly.

Furthermore, there are also things some may beafraidto regain.

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Others might have been able to use social distancing to avoid toxic people.

In fact, even just imagining a world outside our bunkers may be overwhelming, says Dr. Daramus.

Were going to have to deal with a lot of loss.

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Chicago-based psychotherapist

There will be social events where someone is missing, stores that have closed, and milestones youve missed.

Were going to have to deal with a lot of loss, says Dr. Daramus.

There will be social events where someone is missing, stores that have closed, and milestones youve missed.

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Below, experts advise on various coping strategies to get through, no matter what lies in wait.

How to cope with anxiety around the idea of life post-pandemic

1.

We will all be unlearning and relearning how we want to navigate this space, she says.

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In other words, let them be what they are without trying to repress or change them.

Once solid expectations and boundaries are in place, the future feels more predictable and less anxiety-inducing.

Essentially, you want to validate, acknowledge, and shift the perspective.

She also recommends one of her favorite techniques for calming the mind quickly.

Any of these can be done discreetly in public if you oughta, she says.

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people who zap your energy, overcommitment, etc.

Know that some things may look different, and thats okay.

Share your struggles

Being honest with others about what youre going through can help, too, says Watson.

You will definitely not be alone, she says.

Feel free to go back to normal life slowly if it makes you feel better.

Set boundaries

Dr. Daramus also recommends setting some boundaries to ensure your comfort in advance.

Decide in advance what boundaries you still want to set with people, Dr. Daramus says.

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