DEAR HARRIETTE: My town is reopening, and I am so scared. When I listen to the news, I hear many conflicting messages. On one hand, they say that if we continue to stay six feet apart and wear our masks, we can go back to work. I know that we need to begin to turn things around, but I am worried.
I have underlying health conditions, but nobody knows. I’m afraid to say anything because I might lose my job, even after my company allowed all of us to stay on payroll when we were closed. I don’t know what to do. Should I speak to HR or my boss about my concerns? Should I go in and just hope for the best? Should I stay home? What do you recommend? -- Back to Work
DEAR BACK TO WORK: Start with your primary care physician. Schedule a call to discuss how you can go back to work safely. Ask for advice on what you can do that will be safest for you. If your doctor doesn't want you to go back to work, get a written note stating that you have been asked to stay at home for medical reasons for a particular period of time. Your doctor does not need to state what your circumstances are, just that you have a medical reason for staying at home. Talk to your employer about how you can do your job remotely for an extended period of time.
If your doctor says you can go back to work, be careful. Keep your surfaces and hands clean. Wear a mask consistently. Do not touch people. Do not let your guard down -- even if co-workers brush off the precautions as frivolous. Stay vigilant.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)