The social distancing, quarantines, business closures, and other actions taken because of the coronavirus present special challenges for individuals in recovery. The staff at The Right Step recognize the issues that you have with isolation, anxiety, and the possibility of substance use during this pandemic situation. There are ways to stay sober during coronavirus and to get the help that you need during this time of disruptions to your daily life and routine. Our Texas addiction treatment center is here to help you along the way so you can continue on your recovery journey.
Effects of Coronavirus
There are many effects of coronavirus, or COVID-19, on people with substance abuse issues. This is true whether you use marijuana, prescription opioids, heroin, or other substances. The effects are both physical and psychological for people working on staying sober during coronavirus. These implications for individuals with addiction issues are addressed by Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Some risks include:
- Pulmonary, blood vessel, and other damage
- Decreased access to healthcare
- Stronger urges to drink alcohol or use other drugs
- Experiencing feelings of isolation or loneliness
- Assuming that there are no treatment options for staying sober during coronavirus
- Relapse
People that use marijuana, meth, opioids, or other drugs are particularly vulnerable to the effects of coronavirus on the lungs, and the complications of COVID-19 on other areas of the body. Dr. Nora suggests that at this time, people that abuse one or more drugs may face even greater stigma from the already overworked health care systems.
Do you think that with the closures of meeting locations, and other support locations, that you have nowhere to turn? If so, there is hope, even for people like you that are at greater risk for relapse, and for coronavirus.
Staying Sober During the Coronavirus
Although hearing about closures of businesses and agencies in the media likely led to your assuming that there is no treatment or support during coronavirus, The Right Step and our Texas alcohol treatment center programs are here for you.
There are several ways that you can still get the support that you need for staying sober during coronavirus.
- Some support groups are holding ‘virtual’ meetings
- Call your sponsor or another trusted person when you feel the urge to use
- Spend time on indoor hobbies or tackle that messy closet as distractions from thinking about using
Get the treatment and support that you need at The Right Step from our substance abuse treatment programs. Especially during this time of crisis, we are here for you to help you maintain sobriety. If you are currently enrolled in an outpatient program and are participating in an individual therapy program or group therapy program, it is important to continue on with virtual treatment during this time until meetings can take place in person again.
Maintaining Sobriety During Coronavirus
The Right Step is taking extra precautions to protect every new client, along with our staff members. This will help minimize the risks to everyone.
Although some facilities and support options likely have minimal or no services right now, The Right Step continues to welcome clients into its treatment programs. We offer personal protective equipment (PPE) to any client that wants it, including during the admissions process. Our professional staff follows all CDC guidelines and remains vigilant in increased housekeeping measures to maintain cleanliness. Any resident that develops symptoms is isolated and assessed, and referred for any necessary medical evaluation and treatment.
You can be successful in remaining sober, even during coronavirus. Contact The Right Step at 17135283709, to learn more about staying sober during coronavirus and how you can start your journey to sobriety today.
