Since the relaxing of restrictions, many of us may be feeling more positive about the situation with the pandemic, there are still rules that may require us to isolate for shorter periods of time. Although we might feel we are used to isolating having experienced lockdowns, with isolation now being an individual rather than a collective experience, many of us might experience FOMO – or face anxiety due to not being able to attend events alongside our families and friends.

Dr Krause is here to help with that feeling, with some top tips to handle FOMO in isolation:

  1. Remember that feeling “FOMO”, or feeling left out and actually being left out are two different things. Your friends / family would love for you to be there with them if you could.
  2. Challenge why missing out is so hurtful for you, is it related to something negative you feel about yourself such as a belief that ‘no one likes me’? If so, write down 3 reasons why this thought is not true.
  3. Try to make a plan to see those who you have missed after your isolation. It may not be the same event you were looking forward to, but being reunited will remind you of your bond.
  4. Remind yourself that isolating will help to keep other people safe. Try and feel proud of yourself, for doing something kind for others. 
  5. Allow yourself to feel sad, and let it out if you need to. Try to plan something comforting for yourself, such as a warm bath or watching your favourite film.

Why not channel your feelings from the past year into a positive goal for the future? Share your goals as part of Youth Mental Health Day on September 7th! #StrideForward

You can find out more information on managing anxiety as a young person, here.