It’s a strange fact that when we stop doing things, it can be challenging to restart them. And if there was anything that put the brakes on what we liked to do, it was COVID-19. Remember the strict lockdowns, or the strict rules of following the arrows in shops? For many communities there was a worry of spreading COVID-19. And whilst our phones and laptops helped a little, connecting with each other over worries was hard. Zoom calls got tiring and, bit by bit, the rewards of doing something offline with friends were a faraway dream.
How to recharge your social life and boost your mental health
Even when the strict restrictions ended, it wasn’t easy to get back into those great social habits of meeting up just to hang out, which used to be so good for our mental health.
So here are some of our tips for recharging your social life, and boosting your mental health.
1. Try and work out why you feel unsure
If you are not sure about meeting up with friends, try and workout why you feel unsure. Even though the lockdowns ended some time ago, ask yourself questions. For example, do you feel uncomfortable meeting in large places with lots of people? Although you may not be sure what you feel anxious about, you can take steps to manage symptoms of anxiety. For example, download the Clear Fear app to help you manage and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety. The app has powerful breathing exercises and other tasks to help you achieve calm and get back to doing what you enjoy.
2. Create a plan to increase your confidence
If you notice that you’re spending more time at home than you used to, create a plan to increase your confidence outside the home. For example, start exercising outside on your own—something like a regular walk, run, or bike ride will be good for your mental health as well as your physical health.
3. Plan something comfortable
Plan to meet up with friends, but make it comfortable. Would it be best to meet with one close friend, or with a few friends? Would it be better for you to meet somewhere outside like a park? Or would a café or going to see a film be more comfortable? Message your friends and decide together what works best for everyone—they’ll be pleased you asked them.
4. Think about the pros and cons
Think about the costs and benefits of seeing friends less than you used to. What will you miss out on if you don’t make any changes? Good memories help build confidence and, when we’re anxious, they’re a reminder that there are better times ahead.
5. Reminisce about what you enjoyed
Write down the activities you once did with friends that made you really happy and work out how you can start doing them again. Ask your friends too what they enjoyed and what memories they look back on fondly.
It’s so important to try and start somewhere and do something, but start with what feels most comfortable. And if you can keep trying to do the things that made you all happy, you can rebuild your confidence and regain the social life that you deserve.
For more tips and support for recharging your social life, check out stem4’s other blog posts on combatting loneliness and building your own community.
