How Do I Find Addiction Treatment During the Coronavirus Pandemic?
Daily concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic continue to rise across the nation. With more restrictions happening regarding anti-socializing, stay home orders being placed, and travel restrictions being implemented, it leaves people wondering if they should even seek help for their addiction in this current state. But the truth is there’s never been a better time to seek addiction treatment. Addiction treatment and rehab facilities have all become exempt from a stay at home orders guidelines, and Footprints to Recovery intend to continue operating and assisting anyone in dire need of treatment services during this difficult time. During isolating times like these, a professional medical treatment center is an excellent place to make new connections while being surrounded by a supportive and safe sober community. Addiction does not discriminate, and it certainly does not wait for the best opportunity for an addict to choose to get help. During this coronavirus global pandemic, the top question individuals struggling with drugs and alcohol ask is, are they still able to attend treatment during this time? It is during these times of crisis which leads to more anxiety and stress amongst people, especially for the individuals struggling with an addiction. Here at Footprints to Recovery, we are still running and are fully prepared to help individuals seeking drug and alcohol treatment during the coronavirus outbreak. As news of COVID-19 continues to be a front-page headline, Americans will continue to stock up on necessities while continuing to anticipate long periods of social distancing. Everybody is at risk, especially the elderly. Grocery stores have required six feet of distance between customers checking out, supply stores have closed non-essential departments, and group gatherings have been discouraged. But what about patients who regularly attend 12 step meetings during the rehab recovery process? How COVID-19 Will Change 12-Step Meetings Daily, millions of U.S. residents rely on 12 step meetings like Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous to sustain recovery. These group therapy meetings serve a few functions; they will provide support, accountability, and a feeling of acceptance for individuals who have overcome their addiction. However, new guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and also The World Health Organization had both recommended avoiding large groups. They also encourage everyone to obey social distancing by staying at least 6 feet apart. Social distancing is being near but still a part of the physical distance between individuals who do not live in the same residence. For communities, this will mean closing workplaces, schools, and other significant events previously scheduled. For people, though, this means staying at least 6 feet in between everybody else while in public places. Thankfully though, there are still a few options for individuals who do need or enjoy NA and AA meetings. State-run anonymous groups have started taking action to address COVID-19 self-quarantine therapy sessions. For example, current group meetings are happening via phone calls, group texts, FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, even conference calls. The general service office of alcoholics anonymous has stated that multiple groups across the U.S. have taken steps to protect the group members through many different cautionary measures. A few examples being practiced include: Adapting Your Recovery for Coronavirus The most significant lifestyle change during the coronavirus outbreak is the indefinite period of self-quarantine. As of right now, the government has given orders that all non-essential personnel must stay home and work remotely, if possible. Schools have been shut down to online classes, and all restaurants and resorts have been closed. The idea is to only leave the house for work or necessities like grocery runs or somebody depending on your care for them. It’s quite apparent that isolation becomes very challenging for patients in recovery. Accountability and support are highly necessary to keep recovering addicts on track. There are multiple steps people can take to make their time at home positive rather than stressful. The first method would be to consider listening to a recovery speaker online. There are multiple rehab treatment websites online. They will offer a library of recordings and guest blogs that will cover all aspects of treatment, addiction, and recovery. This content will inspire those looking to start or to continue their sobriety journey. Keep Connected After that, make an effort to stay connected with the critical members of your life. Whether you’re doing a remote anonymous meeting or following up with your sponsor, keep all your positive friends and influencers around during these quarantine times. Be persistent and regular and calling friends and relatives to check-in; this will give you social interaction and let them know that you are OK during this time. It is also highly encouraged to keep busy. Isolation will sabotage all efforts of sobriety if not taking seriously. Keep any substances entirely free from the house and make a list of activities you can do to entertain yourself when needed. Isolation gives you time to do multiple things like learning the instrument, to do a construction job you’ve been putting off, or to start a book series. With an umpteen amount of time on your hands, there are many things you can do that are positive and uplifting. Finally, do not be afraid to ask for help during these trying times. The future is uncertain, and you may find yourself in an unprecedented situation during the recovery journey. It is essential to be prepared to contact the right treatment center, therapist, or sponsor when bad days come about. Our staff at Footprints to recovery are available 24/7 to help you with any questions or concerns you have during this time. Telehealth Addiction Treatment During Coronavirus Pandemic Due to social distancing to help flatten the curve and prevent any further spreading of COVID-19, an avenue that has been catapulted as of lately is the use of telehealth. Telehealth directly influences the theory of flattening the curve for health systems worldwide by still allowing treatment professionals and patients to communicate without physical contact. It has
