This coronavirus pandemic is challenging for everyone, but it’s especially difficult if you’re on the journey to recovery. Periods of stress can often cause us to retreat to our old habits and behaviors. If you’ve recovered from a drug or alcohol addiction through a residential addiction treatment program, this extra stress might create the conditions for a relapse. You might even be frustrated because it can feel like you’re moving backward in your recovery. This is an unprecedented, stressful time and, naturally, the effects of the pandemic may be triggering a response in you. Just remember that you put in hard work to get to this point. Therefore, you owe it to yourself to hold onto the gains you’ve made. If you’re struggling right now, follow these suggestions from Liberty Bay Recovery to help you remain sober during coronavirus and beyond.
Join a Virtual Support Group
The process of staying sober during coronavirus may be different than what you’re used to, but you can adapt the same strategies and coping mechanisms you’ve used in the past to this current reality. You won’t be the only one who may be struggling right now. Power and validation come from sharing your experiences with those who are facing the same challenges as you. If you’re used to meeting with a recovery or substance abuse support group in-person to share in your experiences, see if that group has moved to a virtual format. You can also try reaching out to local recovery centers and doctors’ offices in your area to ask if they know of any virtual support groups going on right now.
Give Yourself Grace
You may find yourself struggling to maintain the same schedule you were accomplishing before the pandemic. With everything that’s going on around the world, it’s okay to take a step back from some of your old responsibilities and re-center around what is necessary right now. It’s okay to be a little selfish and concentrate on your needs. If the pressures of friends and hobbies are causing you even more stress, then it’s okay to take a break from them right now and focus on yourself. Tell your friends and family that you’re going through a difficult time right now and let them know how to support you.
Reach out to a Therapist
It’s natural to feel stressed or overwhelmed because you’re learning how to remain sober during coronavirus and all the difficulties that come along with it. Of all times, this is not the one to neglect your mental health. The rise of social distancing has made it more acceptable than ever to seek out telehealth services and many therapists are now offering sessions via video call. If you were seeing a therapist in person before the pandemic, look into whether your therapist is offering remote sessions. Many insurance companies are covering the telehealth sessions to help stay sober during a pandemic, so don’t let cost deter you from exploring this option.
Stay Sober During Coronavirus
No matter what stage of the recovery journey you’re on, Liberty Bay Recovery Center has options to simplify the process. We offer addiction treatment services to help you attain and maintain sobriety, including residential and intensive outpatient options. Staying sober during pandemics like the coronavirus is tough, but we are here to support you.
A few of the other services we offer include:
- Detox programs
- Drug and alcohol rehabilitation
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Holistic addiction treatment
Remaining sober during coronavirus may be challenging, but the tips we provided above will make your journey a little easier. And in case you need any support along the way, don’t hesitate to turn to Liberty Bay Recovery Center. To learn more about all the services we offer, call Liberty Bay at [Direct].
