COVID 19 Causing Relapse Rates to Skyrocket
As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to unfold, the world is locking down, forcing millions out of work and many into isolation. While social distancing isn’t easy for anyone, it is hitting one group particularity hard. People who are recovering from a substance use disorder are finding it difficult to maintain sobriety with their routine uprooted, and many of them are relapsing during COVID-19. A physician at Delphi Behavioral Health Group facility told Fox News, “Yes, we are already starting to see an increase in relapses.”
Relapses are typically brought on by feelings of loneliness, anxiety, sorrow, depression and boredom – things that many are struggling with during the Coronavirus.
It’s never been more important than right now to do a recovery “check up” on yourself, as well as friends and family in recovery.
Sadly, relapses are a part of recovery. It is estimated that 40% to 60% of people in recovery have at least one relapse before reaching long-term sobriety.
Here’s a few things to pay close attention to to avoid possible relapse:
- Isolating behaviors, avoiding people
- Skipping group recovery meetings
- Not talking with a sponsor or therapist
- Poor sleeping and/or eating habits
- Decline in personal care/hygiene
- Reconnecting with old friends who still use drugs & alcohol
- Frequent thoughts of using
- Justifying using of any kind
- Feeling depressed or anxious
- Lying or cheating
- Not living in the present
Don’t Let Covid-19 Stop You from Getting Help!
Nashville Suboxone Recovery is open and providing clinic and telemedicine appointments to new and existing patients.
Call or text (615) 431-3701, or click below to schedule a clinic or telemedicine appointment.
What if Someone I know Relapses During COVID 19?
The best thing we can do when someone close to us relapses is support them. Judging them certainly won’t help. Most times when someone relapses they are typically hurting. Trying to esacpe from pain and discomfort is why people use in general. Here’s a few suggestions:
- Be a friend
- Don’t judge them, support them with kindness and understanding
- Be mindful if/when they want to talk about their relapse
- Help them get to a meeting / reconnect with their sponsor
- Keep prescription drugs and alcohol out of their site
- Avoid bars or places where people drink alcohol
- Drive different routes to avoid situational triggers
- If addicted to opiates, offer to take the to a Suboxone clinic
- Locate and share group recovery meetings, virtual and in-person (Click here to locate a group recovery meeting near you)
Remember: Your sobriety comes first!
Don’t let someone who’s struggling with relapse drag you down. Avoid ALL situations that may trigger relapse if at all possible. Your sobriety is a precious gift and must be protected at any cost!
