Before the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, drug and alcohol addiction was the public health crisis with the most headlines. While the news is largely focused on COVID-19, the disease of addiction has not gone away. Due to the stress and isolation surrounding the pandemic, in fact, those struggling with substance abuse may be getting worse.
A drug interventionist explained the phenomenon to News 8:
“The disease of alcoholism and addiction thrives on isolation. Now we’re kind of being forced to isolate in a lot of ways, so that’s not a good mixture.”
More Triggers and Less Contact
In addition to isolation, factors like fear, anxiety, and depression can drive individuals to drink or use drugs. Many people feel less well and more alone than ever before, but drugs and alcohol are unhelpful coping strategies.
To make matters worse, the groups and gatherings people used to go to for help are no longer available in person. Nevertheless, 12-step meetings have moved online and the recovery community remains strong. COVID-19 may make it harder to get help in many ways, but those who need support can now access it from the comfort and privacy of their own homes.
Getting Help
Even hopping on the phone is a “game-changer” for those battling addiction, according to those who have gone through it. Further, recovery centers across the United States are still open for serious cases, and people receiving outpatient care may continue to attend therapy sessions via Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts, and other video-conferencing software.
“Treatment is still available,” says a recovery specialist, “It does still work, and people can still recover, even in the midst of a pandemic.”
Those with years of recovery and those providing essential services agree: if you need help, all you have to do is call and ask for it.
Who Do I Call?
If you are seeking help, there are several resources available for you, even during the COVID-19 crisis. Decision Point Center is one such resource. We offer drug and alcohol rehabilitation in a safe and controlled environment and our team focuses on your individual health and holistic wellbeing.
We are also fully prepared for the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and responding in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To learn more about how we’re handling the crisis, please click here.
When you’re ready to discuss admissions and get the help you need and deserve, please contact us at (844) 292-5010 or online.
We look forward to supporting your sobriety during this difficult and unprecedented time. Take your first steps toward recovery today!