COVID-19 Resources for People in Addiction Recovery

COVID-19 Resources for People in Addiction Recovery

COVID-19 resources

Addiction recovery must continue to be a priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. While it may be challenging to access treatment in person, there are other options available for you. It will help you to learn more about COVID-19 resources for people in addiction recovery, so you’ll be able to get the support you need even if you have to stay at home.

Virtual Support Groups

The coronavirus outbreak has created a sense of isolation, given the orders to stay home and maintain social distances. However, if you are in addiction recovery, you need the support of others, perhaps now more than ever. Fortunately, most support groups have made adjustments so that you can access them virtually now. Their connections are secure, so can be assured that your discussions are still private and confidential.

Check out these virtual support groups offered by national organizations:

Austin-Area Recovery

Some addiction treatment centers are still providing in-person recovery services, while following the guidelines set forth for health and safety during COVID-19. One of those is BRC Recovery, which has devoted “efforts to creating a safe, clean environment for our clients to receive the highest quality of care, even in the midst of a pandemic.” In addition, BRC Recovery has “placed emphasis on exceeding – not just meeting – CDC and WHO recommendations for sanitization and cleanliness in all of our facilities, including sober living homes.”

CDC Guidance

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers advice and guidance on coping with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that can be particularly helpful as you continue to manage your addiction recovery. Awareness of the stress factors that could be involved during these difficult times can actually help make you stronger. Understanding that what you may be facing is perfectly normal is a start to overcoming the challenges.

The CDC states that stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include:

  • Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
  • Changes in sleep or eating patterns
  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
  • Worsening of chronic health problems
  • Worsening of mental health conditions
  • Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs

Recognizing and being prepared to alleviate these symptoms can aid in your continued successful recovery. Take advantage of the online resources when you feel a need for additional support to resist possible triggers that may occur now.

The CDC also offers helpful suggestions for coping with the additional stress you may be experiencing during COVID-19:

  • Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
  • Take care of your body.
    • Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate
    • Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
    • Exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep.
    • Avoid alcohol and drugs.
  • Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
  • Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.

Manage Online Activity

In addiction recovery, it is important to not spend too much time online, especially on social media or tracking news reports about the coronavirus. While you want to stay informed, oversaturation can generate additional negative feelings, which adds to your stress level. Take advantage of the COVID-19 resources for people in addiction recovery and then focus on your self-care, following the CDC guidelines for coping with your stress.

SOBER AUSTIN HAS THE RESOURCES YOU NEED FOR ADDICTION RECOVERY DURING COVID-19

At Sober Austin, we understand the challenges of continuing your successful addiction recovery during the coronavirus pandemic. We will continue to provide resources for you. If you or your loved is struggling with addiction and need to learn more about available resources, please browse our site to learn more about finding support in Austin. Please feel free to contact us directly by calling 512-640-9661 or emailing contact@soberaustin.com.