As more people get a COVID-19 vaccine, the more it feels like there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. The good news: the vaccines are working! So that means things can slowly start to reopen and return to normal. While that’s definitely exciting news, why are so many of us feeling anxious?
A recent survey from the American Psychological Association found that nearly half of adults are concerned about returning to normal interactions. Experts say it’s only natural to feel some sort of social anxiety after spending a year in isolation. And health anxieties, which we’ve likely all had over the last year, only make the anxiety worse. The main thing to know is that, just like you weren’t the only one locked away in quarantine, you’re not the only one feeling anxious. Today on AirTalk, we want to hear how you’re feeling? Have you ventured out only to feel uncomfortable or anxious? What was your experience? How did you react? How are you coping? Give us a call at 866-893-5722 to share your thoughts and join the conversation.
Guest:
Diana Concannon, PsyD, dean of the California School of Forensic Studies at Alliant International University in California; she is a forensic psychologist who’s worked in crisis response for over a decade; her research interests include disaster mental health and risk assessment