Reopening Anxiety
As Chicago sets to head into the first phase of “re-opening” the city, there is a lot that is still uncertain. What happens if I go back to work and my kids aren’t back in school yet? What if I don’t feel I can perform my work safely? What if people stop following the guidelines to reduce the spread of the virus?
These kinds of questions are incredibly important, but can leave us feeling lost, confused, scared, and powerless.
Here are some tips to best manage stress as we all attempt to move into the next phase in a world with COVID-19.
Focus on what you can control
What about the situation you’re facing is within your direct control? Work to accept the things that are not within your control. Consider choices you can make to navigate the things you can control.
Some examples of things you can control:
Your own decisions about where to go and who to see.
Whether you wear a mask or not. How you model good choices for others.
When you wash your hands, sanitize surfaces, etc.
Physically distancing yourself or speaking up if someone is making you feel unsafe.
Things you can influence, but can’t completely control:
Encouraging others to make good, healthy choices.
Writing to your local and state representatives to share your perspective and express your concerns. Find your reps here: https://www.illinoispolicy.org/maps/
Things you can’t control:
What other people do and what choices they make.
Large scale factors with the virus (e.g., whether there is a “second wave”).
Get information
Consider what questions you could ask of specific people regarding any “What if…?” concerns you might have. Determine what information do you need and who can be the best source of this information. For example, if you have concerns about the safety of your children’s school of daycare, ask the school or program what steps they are taking to keep children, teachers, and others safe. Ask for as many details as you think you need and make an informed decision about what you are willing and able to do.
As for information about the status of the virus and recommendations from officials, refer to reputable sources and steer clear of unreliable sources. If Aunt Sally wants to spread false information and spread anxiety on her Facebook, that’s something to be avoided.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Chicago Coronavirus Response Center
Cook County Coronavirus Information
State of Illinois Coronavirus Information
Ask for what you need
Communicate with family members, friends, employers, and coworkers about what you need to move forward. This might include difficult conversations, such as telling family or friends that you’re not ready for gatherings at this time. It can be hard to set and maintain boundaries with important others, but it may be the best thing you can do to keep yourself and others healthy and safe.
Ask your employer to make available the materials you need to do your job safety, especially if you will be returning to work with the general public. Will masks, hand sanitizer, and cleaning supplies be made available? Can your employer provide dividers and air purifiers if you have a shared workspace? Will they limit the number of people in your space at a given time? Depending on your work situation, you might have more information about what you need than your manager or supervisor does. Speak up and ask for what you need to do your job well and safely.
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If you’re still finding it difficult to manage your stress after trying these things, it may be helpful to speak with a mental health professional. We’re here to help! You can reach us at 773-887-6447 or connect@transcendchicago.com.