.2003190920550.jpg)
For many people recovering from alcohol addiction, 12-step meetings with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) groups are a touchstone of their healing process. Unfortunately, taking precautions during a pandemic makes it difficult to attend these valuable gatherings. With the fear and uncertainty surrounding coronavirus (COVID-19), the temptation to drink or abuse substances may be higher than ever.
That’s why it’s so crucial to stay connected to your sobriety support systems. Many AA groups across the nation are turning to digital platforms, like Zoom and Google Hangouts, to conduct their meetings from a safe distance online. Some members even recommend listening to a podcast like The Recovery Show whenever you feel alone. Others encourage newer members to find a sponsor as soon as possible and check in with them often by phone. Addiction is a disease that feeds off of isolation, so whatever you can do to stay connected to your community will benefit you during this difficult time.
You Are Not Alone
Right now, you need to remember you are not alone. In a discussion with the Los Angeles Times, one AA leader gave the following advice:
“You feel like you’re in a desert just gasping, and this oasis comes, and you go, ‘Oh, I’m not the only one.’ We’re taught resilience, we’re taught that there is a way through and that we figure it out one day at a time, step by step.”
Think of it this way, if you’re new to AA, you can join a group from the comfort of your own home. If you’ve already been going to meetings, you still have one of the most resilient communities in the world at your fingertips.
Our Advice
If you’re struggling with alcoholism, dial-in to an AA meeting or reach out to your sponsor. If you need more support, we’d like to remind you that recovery centers are licensed healthcare providers and many of them remain open even in our nation’s state of emergency.
At Decision Point Center, we are taking the appropriate precautions to counter the spread of COVID-19 and are proud to say our doors remain open.
To discuss your treatment options, please contact us at (844) 292-5010 or send us a message online.
**Please note that the COVID-19 pandemic is a serious global crisis. For the most accurate and up-to-date information in the nation, please check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, here.
For global insight into the crisis, you can also turn to the World Health Organization (WHO).
We encourage you to stay safe and healthy during this unprecedented situation. Be sure to prioritize your mental and emotional health, as well. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out.