Stay safe, stay inside

Social distancing is probably tough for many flourishing and rebellious teenagers, but it is our best defense against the new coronavirus outbreak, and it has to be done. Social distancing is vital in order to protect people from the pandemic that is raging across the globe.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this virus can be transmitted through people who are within six feet of each other. This is why the virus spread so quickly in vastly populated areas like New York, Milan, San Francisco and Madrid. Currently it has yet to drastically harm more isolated areas, like much of the Midwest, but do not be complacent. The virus is projected to kill nearly 200 North Dakotans, and that is with current safety measures in place.
Being in a more isolated part of the country, we are fortunate enough to have a warning from other places in the United States. Schools have already been closed, businesses have gone online and major events have been cancelled or postponed. While it is unfortunate that our school year has practically been cancelled, it must be done in order to save lives.
Estimates from the Trump Administration project that in the best case scenario, with social distancing and isolation, 100,000 to 240,000 Americans will still perish from the virus. The estimates are far worse if no precautionary measures are put in place, which may result in nearly 2.4 million deaths. This is why remaining at home is incredibly important for the well being of our community. Although significant adjustments need to be made to accomodate our new, temporary lifestyle, it is important to stay hopeful and optimistic that better times will come.
All throughout the country people are being laid off from work, with a record 6.6 million Americans filing for unemployment in April. If you are deeply affected by the virus please be sure to reach out to school and community officials. Their programs are set in place to help those in need.
Although it is unfortunate that we all must endure this time of uncertainty, there are ways to make it more bearable and it is important to seek solace right now.
Creating a to do list or schedule will help you adjust to your new life. It will also help you get school work accomplished more efficiently and provide structure as our new school setting is established. Similarly, maintaining a dependable sleep schedule is key in formulating a strong routine.
Going for a walk, run or bike ride are fun activities (as long as you stay six feet apart from other people). Physical activity is important for mental health. Set aside a good portion of your day for exercise, and you will see drastic improvements to your day. It can be as simple as performing yoga for a few minutes in front of the TV or more strenuous like logging a few miles biking.
Staying at home also provides you with time to find a hobby or finish the project you have been procrastinating. You no long have an excuse not to do something because you have all the time in the world to find new interests. Whether it be reading a book, drawing, painting, playing video games or practicing an instrument\; occupying yourself with an enjoyable activity will help release stress that this pandemic has placed on all of us. Try your hand at new things and have an open mind to activities you may have overlooked before. Play a board game with your family or FaceTime your friends. There is a lot that can be done from your desk at home.
Finally, listen to the experts and what they have to say. It is your responsibility to fight this virus, and staying home is the most effective means of doing so. In this time of uncertainty, take a step back and reflect. Everything will be back to normal sooner rather than later, but for now, take a break from the chaos of life and appreciate the small things that will make your days at home enjoyable and relaxing.