The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant and wide-reaching impact upon people from all walks of life. Some have seen loved ones battle the disease, or have become ill themselves. Many have found themselves faced with a dramatic change in their financial circumstances. Everyone has been impacted by lockdown measures designed to prevent the spread of disease. In such a difficult and uncertain situation, it’s hardly surprising that psychologically vulnerable people would struggle more than usual. This is true for those battling the disease of substance abuse.
Stress and anxiety
Recovery is never easy, but it can be somewhat less challenging when your life feels like it’s on track. When you have clear goals to aim for and a steady routine, it can help you focus on getting and staying well. The current pandemic has created a situation where regular routines have been disrupted.
Even small changes can be challenging: it can be stressful when you can no longer visit your favorite coffee shop or burn off some energy at the gym. More significant changes, like switching from working at the office to working from home, can be taxing. For some people, the changes created by the pandemic response have impacted their careers.
Then there’s the virus itself. You or someone you love may be in an at-risk group, possibly facing severe health consequences in the event of contracting the virus. This can be very distressing.
Lack of support
Because of lockdown measures, it may be difficult for you to access your support networks and structures. You might not be able to spend time with a friend or family member as you usually would. You might not have access to support group meetings or face-to-face counseling. This can make it harder to cope, resulting in a higher risk of abusing alcohol or drugs.
How residential care can help
Whether you’re currently coping with active substance abuse or concerned about a possible relapse, a residential rehab program may be the answer. Recovering in a safe, secure environment where you’re supported and given the help you need is more comfortable than trying to struggle yourself. By creating a peaceful environment conducive to healing, residential facilities can improve your chances of recovery. A residential treatment facility is also potentially safer from an outbreak of the virus.
Outpatient treatment
Outpatient rehab treatment can be a valuable source of support, even if you’re not a resident. Maintaining contact with qualified professionals who specialize in addiction recovery can help you during this challenging time. Video appointments and virtual treatment protocols are ideal for patients struggling during the lockdown, providing access to much-needed care even when travel isn’t possible.
Perhaps the most important thing to look for in a treatment facility or program is a commitment to evidence-based approaches. If you’re going to invest time and energy into your recovery, you need to know that the strategies to treat you are supported by the best available evidence for their effectiveness. A compassionate treatment program informed by thorough research will offer the best opportunity for a full recovery.