By Amelia Alexander
Amelia, an Ada HS student, is the Icon's newest columnist. Writing twice a month, this is her third column. Click here to read her most recent column. You will find all her future columns on our "Columnists" page.

COVID has caused a lot of uncertainty for everyone. This past spring, the majority of us were afraid of the virus, the economic uncertainty of the shutdown, and the uncertainty of remote learning.  

Speaking from the perspective of a high school student, it was very scary. The adults in charge did not seem to know the appropriate response  to COVID. Nobody did. Government leaders clashed in opinions about how to act. Our country became somewhat polarized when we needed unity the most. 

Biggest theme is uncertainty
The biggest theme of COVID is uncertainty.  We had (and still have) no idea what would happen to our sports seasons or whether we would be online for school or in person for a very long time.  

Many lives were (and still are being) negatively affected by the pandemic. Plans were completely ruined, like weddings and graduations.  People were/are sick. People died and are still dying, and people lost friends and family to the virus. People are afraid of giving the virus to loved ones that are at high risk, I know I’m worried about giving the virus to my grandparents.  

Personally, the pandemic has rendered me slightly anxious at all times. A pit has formed in my stomach and it won’t go away. I know I’m not the only one.  For a while, I was quarantined due to direct exposure to the virus. I really missed my friends. 

Now that Ada is having classes online, I really miss going to school in person. For the most part, I just crave a sense of normalcy that will likely not return for a long time.  

Many schools around the country have sent students home to limit contact with the virus and keep people healthy and safe. It’s been difficult for me.  My teachers are doing all they can to make this a positive experience, but nonetheless it’s no fun.  

Online school is very stressful for me. Sitting at the computer all day can be somewhat depressing. I miss seeing my teachers and peers in person.

I don’t typically have trouble motivating myself. I don’t think anyone would describe me as lazy, but I find that a little work can be very overwhelming. I want to reiterate that this is not the fault of my teachers. Most of them are doing their absolute best to help students and I truly appreciate it.  

All I know is that I, and many who are in the same boat as me, feel really stressed because of the pandemic and the uncertainty it has created. 

Be sure to check up on your friends and family. A simple call or text could mean the world to them.  

 Some healthy things we can do to cope 
I thought it may be helpful to list some of the coping strategies I have developed during this time of anxiety and uncertainty.  

Writing has been helpful to me. The product of writing that I deem vital is creating something brand new. I’m not artistically inclined, but if you are, I suggest you create art. Making something new can feel productive and relieve stress.  

Yoga has helped me calm down in moments of panic. Gentle movement and deep breathing can be really calming. If you don’t know where to start, I recommend checking out Yoga with Adriene on YouTube free of charge. (Link)  

Exercising is a healthy way to relieve stress. I love to run and listen to music. I find getting fresh air and exercise clears my mind, which leads me to my next point. 

Spending time in nature can be very helpful. After spending hours in front of a computer, going outside and talking to trees (if you feel inclined) can feel like the sanest thing you’ve done all day. 

I find walking my dog or just spending time cuddling with him can be really therapeutic. If you have a pet at home, I recommend paying them some extra attention.  

When life feels heavy, I like to list things I am grateful for. Gratitude can completely shift your mindset.  

If you have the time, I recommend fostering a new hobby. You could try cooking, playing a musical instrument, etc. Learning things awards you with new opportunities. Plus, hobbies create enjoyable things to occupy your time that enrich your mind.  

When taking breaks, for lunch and such, rather than spending time on your phone, go for a walk. I think that we are spending an unhealthy amount of time on our screens. I find it helpful to stretch, walk, or meditate during breaks rather than scroll through social media.  

Again, these are just my suggestions. Do not regard these as absolute truths.