It’s been more than a year since the pandemic began. Recent surveys are showing that more believe we are on our way out of the darkness. When we analyze informal conversations we may notice a significant drop in the percentage of people who say that they are very concerned about themselves or a family member getting COVID-19, and at the same time, we’ve seen an increasing percentage of the community who have gotten the vaccine.

“Normal” feels just around the corner. But as we begin to climb out of this past year, it is worth considering: How has this year of uncertainty impacted us personally? And more importantly, are we ready to get back to life?

The above set of signs and symptoms are now being referred to as re-entry fear. Over the past year, many report that adjusting to a life of avoidance and restrictions was difficult, but what seems more difficult is returning to how it was before the pandemic. If you are experiencing these types of issues, you are not alone. There is no question that it is easier to learn to be afraid than to be unafraid.

Every change in routine can be challenging. For those prone to anxiety, OCD, depression, and addictive behavior, changing routines that involve isolation and avoidance can cause emotional havoc. After one year of establishing avoidance patterns, re-entry can bring a host of overwhelming or even frightening feelings that make imminent danger seem very real.

Just as God was with Joshua, He offers to be with us as we face new challenges. Soon we all will discover opportunities to recover from times of uncertainty. Surprised by stress triggered by the lifting of restrictions? All of us have in some way been significantly affected by fear and discouragement during the pandemic. Now is the time to embrace the opportunity to be strong and courageous. In our own strength, this is impossible. However, when God is with us, we can develop a confidence and a reason to hope for a comeback.

If you are overwhelmed, it’s time to consider some small steps:

• Return to in-person church services
• Pray for courage regarding daily challenges
• Seek fellowship opportunities with family and friends

For those who are struggling, CCA is available with extra help:

• Sessions are available online for those who are anxious for any reason
• Onsite sessions are available for those ready for re-entry
• Coming soon: In-person Group Counseling for Anxiety Reduction

Christian Counseling Associates has the interventions to assist you. Engaging counseling can be one of your small steps to true re-entry. As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, we acknowledge that God has given us a reason to hope. For those about to wrestle with what it means to be courageous, we salute you! Let’s recover from the times of uncertainty!