Anxiety levels expected to rise as lockdown restrictions ease, says psychology professor
As it stands all coronavirus restrictions are set to be scrapped on June 21
Anxiety levels are expected to increase as lockdown restrictions begin to ease, according to a psychology professor at the University of Gloucestershire.
As it stands all coronavirus restrictions will be scrapped on June 21 although it's thought it could be pushed back due to rising infection rates and the arrival of new variants.
People have struggled with their mental health during the pandemic but it seems the easing of lockdown rules will also mean stress and anxiety will increase as well.
Dr Kerry Rees, Psychology professor at University of Gloucestershire, said: "There are continuous news reports of new variants being present within the population
"So that could most definitely be anxiety provoking for some people.
"Likewise there will other people who will be anxious at the thought of further isolation so I think it's a more nuanced picture."
Despite craving social interaction over the past 15 months the thought of being in a large crowd, either at a music or sporting event, or even being in the office is also making people worried.
Dr Rees continued: "Some people may be okay and excited about going to a music or sports event however it may not be until after it they begin to feel anxious.
"They've been to this highly emotive event which was very enjoyable but as the high wears off they could become concerned they're spreading Covid to their friends or family.
"Also people returning to the office could provoke anxiety in some people because you're mixing with other social bubbles as well."
There's been a distinct increase in the number of people accessing support from health professionals to help deal with mental health issue caused by the pandemic.
Dr Rees explains that this could definitely spike when restrictions ease, saying: "We will probably see a spike in specific careers groups needing to access further support for their mental wellbeing.
"Carers and medical professionals will definitely see that spike and potentially in other groups of the general population as well.
"But I do think it will eventually plateau and even off as other worries and concerns replace Covid".
The Government are expected to make an announcement of Step 4 of the lockdown roadmap on Monday (June 14).