BISMARCK, N.D. — The North Dakota Department of Human Services’ Behavioral Health Division is offering resources, support, and services to help people who may be experiencing stress, anxiety, and other emotions during the transition to a “new normal,” as the states daily positivity rate remains low.
“As we mark the one-year anniversary of the pandemic’s arrival in North Dakota, people are adjusting once again to a new normal. Although we may enjoy the thought of resuming pre-COVID activities, for many it may bring stress, anxiety or questions about how to transition back into activities,” said Pamela Sagness, Behavioral Health Division director.
The Behavioral Health Division’s website has resources for educators, health care and behavioral health professionals, parents and other North Dakotans. There is information about free virtual support groups, how to locate addiction or mental health treatment services, and other resources.
Other available resources include Project Renew, which offers free and anonymous counseling from trained professionals. People can call Project Renew at (701) 223-1510. If someone is having thoughts of suicide or is concerned about a loved one, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
The Behavioral Health Division offered a few tips to ease the transition to a new normal and new routine:
- Start small with enjoyable activities: Have one friend over for coffee, go out for breakfast, eat outside on a patio or run errands on a weekday to avoid large crowds.
- Slowly expand your world.
- Enjoy the outdoors: Have a picnic at a park, go for a walk with a friend around a neighborhood or try activities like golfing or fishing.
- Visit a local shop during off peak hours.
- Follow public health guidance: Learn about vaccination opportunities and continue masking, avoiding large crowds, washing your hands frequently and staying home if you feel sick.
- Trust your instincts: Take extra time becoming comfortable, use caution and be patient.
On Thursday, North Dakota reported 121 new positive cases of COVID-19 and a daily positivity rate of 2.71%.
Active cases rose by 62 to 773.
63 additional people have recovered from the virus; 99,171 have recovered so far.
16 people are currently hospitalized, the same as Wednesday. Five of those patients are in the intensive care unit.
The following counties have recorded new positive cases:
- Cass County (Fargo) – 41 cases
- Burleigh County (Bismarck) – 12 cases
- Grand Forks County (Grand Forks) – 10 cases
- Ward County (Minot) – nine cases
- Williams County (Williston) – seven cases
No new deaths were reported, leaving the states death toll at 1,459 since the pandemic began.
189,773 North Dakota residents (26.3%) have received a first dose of the coronavirus vaccine. 317,164 doses of a coronavirus vaccine have been administered statewide.
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