After several months in quarantine, some states are opening back up. But things have changed, so you may not know what to expect when you reenter the outside world. These seven tips can help make your transition back into society as smooth as possible.
If you’ve been getting stir crazy, you might be eager to get out of the house as soon as regulations are relaxed. But don’t get too excited just yet! It’s important to remember that COVID-19 may still be in your community.
The CDC recommends those at the highest risk take certain precautions, including staying at home if possible. The CDC also advises that everyone works to protect themselves and others by washing their hands often, limiting close contact (stay 6 feet away from one another), wearing a cloth face cover, covering coughs and sneezes, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces often.
The pandemic has taken a toll on everyone. Since people deal with stress differently, even people you’re close with may not seem quite themselves anymore. Try to be patient and kind with both yourself and others as you go through this transition.
With many people wearing face masks and/or gloves, the world looks a lot different than it used to. To kids, this new normal may seem scary. Preparing them ahead of time may take away some of that fear. If you must take your kids with you, reinforcing social distancing guidelines with your children before going to public places can also help keep your family and your community safer.
Right now, regulations vary a great deal between states and even the cities within a state. What’s more, these regulations are constantly evolving. If you’re planning on venturing out of your house, try to stay abreast of all pertinent regulations to make sure you’re playing by the rules.
Many businesses have implemented new policies to try to protect guests and employees. Depending on the business, you may be required to wear a mask, shop alone, and/or stay six feet away from others. Business hours may also have changed, and some stores no longer accept returns. If you’re unsure of a company’s policies, you might look on its website or call ahead.
There is still a lot of uncertainty, so staying flexible may make it easier to roll with the changes as they come. You may need to continue to adjust your plans, change your habits, or comply with additional rules and regulations depending on how the situation evolves.
Any change can be stressful, and everyone in the world is experiencing a lot of changes right now. If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Many doctors are offering consultation via phone or video chat if you don’t want to go into the office.
Additionally, if you think you may have COVID-19, the CDC asks that you stay home except to seek medical care. If you choose to seek medical care, the CDC also advises that you call ahead.
What will you be doing differently as stay-at-home orders are relaxed? Let us know in the comments section below!
Fall means cooler weather, changing leaves, pumpkin spice, and my most favorite, Halloween. Halloween is… Read More
Ghosts may give you goosebumps. Monsters may give you nightmares. But if you're on a… Read More
This time of year, you can buy cute baby costumes at a huge array of… Read More
With many restaurants shuttered and others offering only takeout and delivery, a lot of families… Read More
You might not be able to jet off on an around-the-world adventure, but that doesn't… Read More
When you're on the go, you may get hungry. If you've had a bad day,… Read More