Isolation is Risky When Recovering From Addiction

Overcoming drug and alcohol addiction is not an easy feat, and the longer people are addicts the harder it is to quit. One of the most helpful things for those in recovery is the companionship that they are encouraged to cultivate with others going through the same kinds of changes. The effects of social distancing rules are making this harder to accomplish for many. Support groups for overcoming addiction are struggling to keep going while observing the rules and regulations associated with the coronavirus.

A Missing Lifeline

For those in recovery from addiction, in-person meetings and support services are a lifeline. These regular, often daily, interactions with counselors and others in recovery help those recovering from substance abuse to stay focused on continued sobriety. Just a few words from a comrade during these meetings can help these individuals keep away from drugs and alcohol until the next meeting. Many recovering addicts live this way; one day at a time.

Support Groups Move Online

Many support groups and counseling sessions have been moved online due to coronavirus measures. However, not all of them have been, and this is a big problem for many. People in recovery from addiction often lack conveniences like internet access and a computer that most people simply take for granted, and only so much can be accomplished with a smartphone. Counselors have been asking their patients to check-in by phone to let them know that they are alright. For many recovering addicts who need to pick up medication, they now have to get their medications outside the clinics at specific times.

Risk of Relapse

Telemedicine is being utilized to some degree to see patients who have the necessary resources, such as a computer and/or smartphone. If the daily routine that many in recovery follow is interrupted just for a day, the risk of relapsing increases dramatically. This is especially true for patients recovering from opioid addiction. Providers struggle to keep up with patients without permanent addresses to keep them from relapsing.

The new coronavirus measures go against what counselors tell their recovering patients to do. They are taught to find support in others and to stay in touch with them. Isolation is the last thing those in recovery need, and it’s the main reason most people use mind-altering substances in the first place.