The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a special burden on those grappling with mental health issues. In addition to the potential physical health effects brought on by COVID-19, people all over the country have been dealing with higher levels of stress and anxiety related to the pandemic. Now, though more and more workplaces are returning to in-person work as vaccine rates increase, many people’s pandemic anxiety likely remains high. Whether they have health vulnerabilities, family responsibilities, or even a long commute, many people are understandably worried about returning to the office. It may be useful to receive care at an anxiety treatment center to address this anxiety in some serious cases.
Anxiety treatment at the Atlanta Center For Mental Health offers unique support from qualified clinical professionals who can help you or a loved one manage symptoms of pandemic anxiety. If the stress and anxiety of returning to work are having a detrimental effect on your life, consider calling the Atlanta Center For Mental Health at 833.625.0458 to learn about your therapeutic options.
Anxiety About Returning To The Office After the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a significant factor in the rise in reported stress and anxiety levels over the past year and a half. Although, in some respects, pandemic conditions are improving, this does not necessarily translate to a smooth transition back to office work. For one, the pandemic is by no means over.
Many people have valid safety concerns relating to new variant spread or vaccination rates in their local area. In addition, many people have gotten used to interacting in person with fewer people over the past year and may be experiencing what is called “reentry anxiety.” The idea of interacting with dozens of people a day may be initially overwhelming for some.
Tips For Overcoming Stress and Anxiety
Fortunately, there are several simple ways to alleviate anxiety about returning to the office. These include:
- Planning ahead – Having a defined plan for your return date can give you some amount of control as you return to work. Plan your work wardrobe and lunches, mentally run through your day beforehand, and establish a good sleep schedule.
- Asking about safety protocols – Knowing what protocols are in place to keep you safe can help alleviate some of the safety concerns. Having more information can also help you ensure coworkers and leadership are following the protocols.
- Gradually returning to work – If possible, consider returning to work slowly at first, practicing exposure in smaller, more manageable periods before going back full time. Ask your boss if a hybrid model is available.
- Using coping methods – If all else fails, simple established coping mechanisms like deep breathing or meditation can help ease the anxiety of returning.
Can An Anxiety Treatment Center Help?
Although some people will be able to deal with their anxiety about returning to the office on their own, many may require clinical help to help them readjust to the post-pandemic workplace. This could be especially important if you are dealing with depression, PTSD, or dual-diagnosis issues in conjunction with pandemic anxiety. Dealing with your mental health should be the top priority.
In these cases, a program at an anxiety treatment center like the Atlanta Center For Mental Health can be a meaningful step towards managing your symptoms. In addition to our anxiety treatment program, we also have a variety of mental health services, including:
- Residential mental health center
- Dual diagnosis treatment program
- Bipolar treatment program
- Depression treatment program
- PTSD treatment program
If you or a loved one could benefit from mental health treatment at the Atlanta Center For Mental Health, call 833.625.0458 or fill out our online form to learn more about how we can help you adjust to the changing post-pandemic world.
