What we know about social anxiety levels since the pandemic

Social anxiety levels increased as the covid-19 crisis spread around the globe. Changes to employment, work structure, social structure and family dynamics in the home, left virtually no one unaffected. Three years later, significant numbers of people continue to experience elevated levels of anxiety with women, girls and 2SLGBTQ+ members affected disproportionately more.

People with higher levels of post-pandemic anxiety

• Parents/women with children under age 9

• 2SLGBTQ+ members

• Adults between ages 18-35

• Students

• Unemployed

• Low-income earners

When restrictions eased, mental health improved for Canadians overall. However those gains have since stagnated or actually gotten worse (pdf). This includes a whole cohost of children who missed important academic milestones.

What is anxiety?

• Irrational thoughts or feelings

• Feelings of unease or dread

• Agitation, irritability or anger

• Feeling tense or nervous

Irrational feelings, feeling overwhelmed, worry, panic, agitation and dread impact people's ability to cope.

Anxiety can be managed, though, and the good news is more people are choosing to get help through anxiety counselling.

How anxiety counsellors help

• Explore the issue to gain insight and understanding

• Suggest different ways to manage

• Work with family member and supportive people

• Address unhealthy coping mechanisms

• Provide constructive solutions

Anxiety counsellors in Surrey help people of all ages gain insight into the causes of their anxiety. Once someone understands where their feelings are coming from a counsellor can suggest different ways of managing their circumstances. Anxiety counsellors also work with family members or others who support anxious individuals. By addressing unhealthy coping mechanisms and providing constructive solutions, anxiety can be managed and reduced. Learning to manage anxiety leads to better mental health.

Alison Bell counsellors in Surrey are highly skilled and experienced in helping individuals of all ages manage anxious thoughts and feelings. We would love to speak with you and answer any of your questions. 604-372-1545