Facing retirement

For many of us, our working lives are central to how we think and feel about ourselves. Not only does work structure our days, it can play a powerful role in our identities. Approaching retirement, then, can be daunting. Even though the prospect of having more time and freedom might seem really appealing, it can also confront us with big questions about who we are, what we want and find meaningful in life, and what new role we might play in society after leaving the working world.

Managing Uncertainty

With everything that is happening in the world at the moment, it is very easy to feel overwhelmed. Many people are struggling with feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, despair, panic – or a whole combination of difficult emotions. There are very real external reasons to be finding things hard right now, on top of all our usual daily obligations and stresses: work, school, relationships, health, money, and so on.

Fear of spiders (arachnophobia)

It’s that time of year when spiders seem to be everywhere.

Most of us don’t notice or are not too bothered by them but for those of us who have an intense fear of spiders it can be a challenging time.

Arachnophobia refers to a severe and overwhelming fear of spiders which can often be debilitating and interferes everyday life.

Seeing a spider or even something that looks like one can feel like a serious threat as your mind is giving you the message that you are in danger resulting in a flight or fight response.

This fear can often stem from having had a previous negative encounter with a spider or seeing someone close to you being anxious around them.

Social anxiety and COVID

Anxiety thrives on uncertainty, so it is no wonder that rates of anxiety have sky- rocketed during this pandemic. But at least in lockdown we knew what we could and couldn’t do. Since opening up we have ever more questions and less answers.

Should we wear masks or not? Do lateral flow tests regularly or before seeing other people? Accept invites to gatherings? Have gatherings? The list goes on, and so does our sense of confusion about how to feel and the best way to respond. Numerous studies have shown how much we have struggled, and perhaps continue to struggle. You are not alone.

Starting University

The beginning of the University year can throw up a range of different experiences for students.

Many students returning to University may be looking forward to experiencing a more “normal” student life with less covid 19 restrictions, while others may be feeling anxious about how they will cope with more face-to-face teaching and relaxed social events.

For first year students, experiences can vastly differ. Although it is exiting and fun for some , it can be daunting and anxiety provoking for others.