Returning to life outside

[Dublinn]

Anyone get panicky around a lot of people? Need some way to stop worrying.

[sassy59]

It can be worrying Dublinn so Pete and I try to go out at quieter times. We find first thing in the morning or later afternoon works. Try not to encounter lots of people if possible. Do things gradually.

Wishing you well. Xxxx

[CDPO16]

I haven't been around a lot of people but would probably feel as you do if I was. Lockdowns have gone on so long it's bound to have had an impact on many of us. As sassy says, take it slowly and hopefully you will gradually feel more confident.

[Spacecat1]

I am having same problem having panic attacks. Managed our local supermarket. I did get a bit stressed but after some slow deep breathing I got there. Take care hope you get soon

[Annie31]

When I was able to go out between lockdowns, I couldn't wear a mask but kept my distance, avoided crowds and basically hoped for the best! Well it seems to have worked so far! I have become housebound with this latest lockdown but would really like to re-enter the real world. Sadly I don't think that's going to happen so my advice would be take all the precautions advised and go out and live!

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

Yes I get panicky at the thought of going out but I want to be able to go back out. But I will have to take Sassys advice and take things slowly. Have a good day and take care 😊 Bernadette and Jack 🐕 xxxxxx

[Alberta56]

It will take all of us time to get used to going out and about. It doesn't help that there are still people who don't wear masks or wear them improperly.

[Pentreath Volunteer]

I’m waiting until we know what will be happening on 17th May. Only been out of my village four times since March 16th last year and two of those were for vaccinations and two to see my ‘bubble’ friends. Thinking of going on the bus to the nearest town first and then venturing further.

[watergazer]

Since my 2nd jab I’ve ventured out more but I still don’t like to be too close to people and I still wash food shopping and clean down door handles light switches .... regularly x take care

[Jaybird19]

Yes really avoid people, but dont want to until i have had second jab and i seem to have got lost somewhere as surgery say arny who did first have to do thr second, and that was over 3 months ago.

[Hidden]

I realise now that my anxiety has as much to do with my social disconnection as it does about the virus. I am just not used to being with people. My friend and I.have done a few outings. Not far and to NT properties where we can see people but walk at a distance. I am still not happy to go to a supermarket or into town by myself. Today we are going with timed tickets to a tulip festival so hope the sun keeps shining. As the others say. Slowly does it. We will get there.

[shouty in reply to Hidden]

Enjoy the festival. When I've had my 2nd jab will be going to NT properties too hopefully 😊

[Walkwalkwalk]

Yes it is scary out there. Lockdown has been so protective for we ‘vulnerable ‘ ones but bursting our bubbles and exposing us to the outside world needs time to adjust to mentally as well as the practical planning required. I have decided to ignore supermarkets for now although I would love to handle my own vegetable choices so am considering a visit to the local greengrocer. So I have braved the garden centre and it was ok.

I am missing visiting the local charity shop so that’s on my list for next week. For me I find that having a reason for the outings helps such a lot. Who wants to be in a crowd anyway?

I hope that you find a way to be more comfortable out there.

Grace

[Delamere]

I think all of us lung buddies have to accept that life is never going to be completely "normal " for us. We still need to keep a certain social distance and continue other precautions like hand washing. Having said that there is a great big beautiful world out there which l intend to make the most of for as long as l can .So onwards and upwards hand sanitiser in pocket x

[Snackjack]

Having been shielding for over 12 months now like you I feel very nervous about joining society again. I have made an appointment to go for a facial in June (where I used to go pre covid so I phoned them and had a word and I know it will be covid secure) so I have a point in time to get my mindset where it needs to be to start leaving home again. I did this as I could see me not making the break, this way I feel I have a point in time to aim for. I think like sassy59 says, at first try to go at quieter times to build up your confidence, that is they way will be playing it. Take care xx

[teenieleek]

Reading through the replies it seems we are all feeling much the same. I’m torn between “let’s get out there, life’s for living” and “ I think I might just wait a bit and see how things go”. Somewhere in between is probably the answer. Go out but be wary of crowded places and go home if you’re uncomfortable.