Diana Hill - How to Successfully Re-Enter After the Pandemic

Reentry Journey

Diana Hill, a clinical psychologist, explores the emotional journey of reentering society post-COVID. She emphasizes the importance of flexible and values-based reentry, encouraging individuals to reflect on their values and adapt to new norms. This transition offers a unique opportunity to reassess what truly matters in life and make meaningful changes. Hill notes, "Sometimes the biggest challenges in our lives offer the biggest opportunity to make some changes, as well as reflect and think about our values and what matters most to us." 1

   

Anxiety Management

Managing anxiety during post-COVID reentry is crucial, as many have experienced heightened fear and stress. Diana Hill suggests that post-traumatic growth is possible by reflecting on personal values and finding common humanity. She recommends practices like meditation to soothe the nervous system and foster a sense of safety. "We need our nervous system to know that we are safe," she explains, highlighting the importance of calming techniques like slow breathing. 2

   

Flexibility

Embracing flexibility is key to adapting to post-pandemic life. Diana Hill discusses psychological flexibility, which involves adapting to change while staying true to one's values. This flexibility is linked to lower depression and anxiety, and better mental health outcomes. "Psychological flexibility is your ability to adapt and change, your ability to open up, accept, and allow," she states, underscoring its importance in navigating new challenges. 3