“I don’t know what will happen next. The past couple of years have taught me that life can change in a heartbeat, and it’s that uncertainty that I find a little unsettling.”

As Taiwan reopens its borders, is it ready to live with Covid?

We may be anxious about different issues – a Covid recurrence, a future pandemic, having to return to work or be in crowded public spaces again – but there’s little doubt that many of us aren’t looking forward to adjusting to life in a post-pandemic world.

We also don’t know what this “new normal” entails.

Nearly half of Hongkongers surveyed suffer ‘moderate to severe’ anxiety

“But now, we’re afraid of relinquishing the mechanisms that helped us deal with our difficult emotions, because we don’t know what will happen if we do.”

People with anticipatory anxiety imagine the worst, Mahtani says. They tend to make negative predictions and worry excessively about an event, situation or person that needs to be faced in the future.

Anyone can experience anticipatory anxiety, but people with anxiety disorders are more prone to it.

It’s important to address anticipatory anxiety and keep it in check, otherwise it may escalate further and create even bigger problems, says Hong Kong-based psychologist Dr Adrian Low.

“Some people may increase their use of alcohol or drugs, believing that it will help them deal with their emotions, but alcohol and drugs can actually worsen anxiety.

Some Hongkongers drinking more than ever amid Covid-19, group warns

So how can we adapt to life in the new, post-pandemic world?

Low recommends looking at the scientific data and facts to better understand the risks involved before you adjust your behaviour. No one can predict what will happen several months from now, but knowing the facts can help you make sense of any irrational fears.

Then, take small steps to overcome those fears. If you’re anxious about attending social events, try meeting a couple of friends outdoors, but take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from Covid-19.

How to make home a happy place when you’re stuck together

“The worst thing you can do is avoid safe or relatively safe situations, because that reinforces the conditioned belief that something bad will happen to you. The more you avoid, the harder it’ll be to overcome them,” he explains.

When researching the facts, stick to credible and trustworthy news sources. Avoid reading sensational reports on social media, as these often contain false information which can heighten your anxiety.

Changing your perspective of this current reality can help dampen anticipatory anxiety.

“Look at it as the end of one era and the beginning of another,” says Sonia Samtani, a clinical hypnotherapist and the founder of All About You in Hong Kong.

“Who knew we’d have to give up ‘normal life’ and adjust to something new? But change is the only constant and we have to accept that life may never be the same again.

“To let go of something, in this case your pre-Covid life, you have to know what you’re replacing it with. It helps to ground yourself in the present by accepting the changes that are taking place and then setting goals and intentions for the future.

How to stay motivated and keep striving to reach your goals

“When planning your goals, think about those aspects of life that are within your control, such as your health, work or relationship. This will give you a sense of optimism and make it easier to move forward.”

Not everyone will be able to move forward at the same time or pace, so be patient with yourself and others, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries, Low adds.

Duong has grown stronger over the past 12 months – and has adopted a dog. If she has to endure another lockdown, she’ll be better equipped to handle it.