On Tuesday, the long-awaited message came.
The corona restrictions are released and the Swedes can soon return to a more normal life.
Fear of the normal
Does this mean that the streets will be filled with freedom-hungry people on September 29?
Not necessarily.
More and more psychological studies indicate that on the contrary, it can be difficult for some to adapt to the new-old, pandemic-free, life.
- It has even been given a concept.
It is called FONO and means fear of normal, says Björn Hedensjö, psychologist.
Some experts have gone so far as to predict a "tsunami of mental illness."
Others believe in a more cautious development.
- I think it will look very different in different countries.
In a British study, one in five said they were afraid of the virus, even though the pandemic is basically over there.
But there, the restrictions have been much stricter than here, says Björn Hedensjö.
Disgust and corona bubble
What is it that makes not everyone cheer loudly at the thought of released restrictions?
The psychological mechanisms differ between different groups, says Björn Hedensjö.
- There are those who felt very well in the corona bubble and do not want to let go.
Others are basically introverted and have blossomed in their introversion when they have not met other people.
They may need some social training in the beginning.
The pandemic has made us more aware of bacilli and viruses.
Some people experience new feelings of disgust - in the face of almost everything and everyone.
Feelings of disgust are deeply human, but it is important not to let the disgust take up too much space.
In order not to be locked in, you simply have to go out and expose yourself to other people.
Go to a restaurant, hop on the bus.