Anxiety and COVID-19

Anxiety is one of the most common issues that brings people to therapy. Many of us have underlying issues in relation to confidence and how we are perceived by others. This may relate to relationships, appearance, work, studies, health, sex or indeed permeate into all aspects of our life making us fearful of living a full life and rewarding life.

The recent national and international events and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and the implications of this virus, have added a level of anxiety which has been difficult for the majority. A complete change in individual and family routine and restrictions involving travel, work and school have had psychological consequences for many. The prescription of anti depressants has already increased by 16% and there has been a wave of referrals to over stretched NHS psychological services. For some this pandemic has resulted in trauma with all of the difficulties related to the issue, social withdrawal, fear, nightmares, periods of terror, agoraphobia, health related anxiety etc.

The impact on children who are missing schooling and perhaps more importantly the social aspect of school and contact with friends has resulted in behavioural problems. Children are picking up on justifiable parental anxiety reinforcing their own worries.

If you have concerns about your own or your children’s response to the situation please contact me for a consultation and we can explore ways to improve how you are feeling and decrease the anxiety.