The Road to Recovery is Not Easy, but it is Possible
The COVID-19 pandemic presented many challenges for those who actively suffer from substance use disorders as well as those in recovery. Due to physical distancing, quarantine, isolation, and other health measures, people's daily lives were heavily affected. For those in recovery, social support is one of the most important ways to maintain sobriety. Quarantine made it difficult to meet for peer support and other social connections.
Addiction is defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) as a brain disease indicated by cravings, an inability to abstain from the behavior or substance, dysfunctional emotional responses, and a loss of behavioral control. Seeking treatment for this disease is essential in starting your journey to recovery.
Professional recovery treatment includes:
- Behavioral therapy: CBT, or Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, can be used to treat underlying mental health problems as well as prevent relapse.
- In-patient or outpatient treatment: Rehabilitation centers provide a more intensive form of treatment compared to traditional behavioral therapy.
- Support groups: Seeking others going through recovery can build a strong support system. Local community centers may hold support groups, you can find an AA or NA meeting, or ask a professional therapist for a reference.
Other helpful coping mechanisms for substance use recovery can be:
- Exercise. Exercising is proven to assist in maintaining sobriety. Physical fitness curbs addictive cravings as well as provides routine and structure. The endorphins can release endorphins that boost your mood and relieve stress.
- Meditation. Mindfulness is a common technique used in recovery. There are a few different types of meditation proven to help, which you can find here.
- Creative expression. Utilizing any sort of creative expression, such as painting, drawing, or writing, is a great way to process feelings and act as a cathartic tool.
Help is just a call away. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 800-662-HELP (4357) is a 24/7 hotline and will work to connect you with mental health resources in your area. Our Mental Health Resource Center also has information in regard to recovery, including ways to help your loved one who is struggling and misconceptions about recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse and you wish to seek help, Acenda offers a variety of recovery-specific programs.
For more information or to make an appointment, please call our main number at 844-422-3632 x9501.
Sources:
https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/comorbidity/covid-19-substance-use#:~:text=Experiencing stress related to the,use substances again (relapse).
https://americanaddictioncenters.org/sobriety-guide/coping-mechanism