A licensed therapist shares ways you can help prepare to go back out into public spaces.

The temperatures are steadily rising, and so are our expectations! We’ve been so limited in what we’ve been able to do in the last year and a half so now people are ready to get out and enjoy life this summer, and possibly want to make up for lost time... but is this the best approach?

Ronnie Hormel, a therapist with Birmingham Maple Clinic, gave some advice on Live in The D for how to navigate this challenging time. The feelings of lockdown without the relief of the holidays will be stressful for many. Hormel says you should talk to your family members, and not to be afraid to express to them your comfort level for upcoming gatherings. On top of feeling like you need to host a certain type of gathering for your family, there’s the new worry of safety for yourself and other family members. He also suggests to avoid politics and think about what works for you right now and what you’re comfortable with.