How to Manage COVID-19 Re-Entry Anxiety

Take It Slow

It's easy to get caught up in what students "should" be doing and forget that everyone handles the pandemic differently. Remind yourself that it's OK if you're not settling in as quickly as your peers. Go at your own pace.

Consider This:

• Don't feel bad if you aren't up for socializing as much as you did before COVID-19.
• Give yourself time to acclimate to being back on campus and going out.
• Start with one person and slowly add more people to your social pod.

Connect With Others

Quarantine caused feelings of isolation for many people. Some may not be as eager or ready to socialize again — especially first-year students who haven't made campus connections yet. However, social support is still one of the keys to being happy and lowering stress. Strengthening your relationships can help you feel more comfortable.

Try This:

• Talk about your feelings with a considerate, empathetic, and skilled listener.
• Join a virtual club at your college to meet new people while you're still getting used to being back in public.
• Write down a list of the people you want to chat with regularly, then follow through by reaching out to them.

Start a Routine

The pandemic threw everyone off. One way to get back on track is to start a new routine. A routine will help your body and mind find stability and overcome the feelings of anxiety you've developed during the pandemic.

Try This:

• Start your day at the same time every day.
• Set daily goals, such as getting outdoors, finishing assignments, or hanging out with friends.
• Use your campus recreation center to unwind, exercise, and build a social network.

Treat Your Body Well

Diet and exercise can make an impact on your anxiety. Studies show that poor diet in particular can be detrimental to mental health. While you don't necessarily need to treat your body like a temple, making some healthy dietary decisions can help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety. However, remember to chat with your doctor before making any drastic changes in what you eat.

Try This:

• Eat fresh fruit rather than sugar-laden junk food to give yourself more energy and less stress.
• Do 30 minutes or more of physical exercise — yoga, running, cycling — once a day for 3-5 days a week.
• Avoid certain foods or drinks that can aggravate feelings of anxiety, such as coffee, fruit juice, or fried food.

Ask for Help

It's normal to feel intimidated by the idea of returning to campus and pre-pandemic activities. Millions of other people are experiencing similar anxiety. It's also normal to ask for help to better process and manage your emotions.

Consider This:

• Anxiety isn't a taboo subject like it used to be, so it's OK — and even encouraged — to be open about your feelings.
• Campus resources, such as on-campus counseling, are a good place to start seeking help.
• Many communities, schools, and places of worship also offer mental health support, some of which can be accessed online for free through state governments.