A part of isolation that not many talk about is that after being isolated for months or years with illness, getting out can be overwhelming. The sounds and lights are brighter. There are people everywhere. Even though it is wonderful to see people, it can be too much after being alone for so long in a very confined space. (Trust me… even a “big” house grows small after months or years stuck inside!)

My tip… do it anyway. If you are physically able to get out again, especially to something other than a medical appointment or grocery run, do it. It is important for your mental/emotional health as well as for regaining your “sea legs” out and about.

You may want to start small, going to a park or to the store very early in the morning when it is less busy or whatever you like to do. (For me, car shows are a great way to start to get out and about again after the winter.) Then, slowly go out more.

In the winter months, perhaps even a drive will help. Just get out of the house as you can! My dad used to take us for car rides, especially as we were recovering from illnesses. It got us out in the fresh air and out of the house.Do it. It is important. Move forward without fear.  Get out!

Do it. You will begin to re-acclimate to being around people. It gets better with time.

Take whatever precautions you need to take and do it.