May 21, 2020|Addiction, Mental Health, Substance Use
Why It May Be Harder to Cope With Substance Abuse During Coronavirus Isolation (And Where to Find Support)
For an individual struggling with addiction, COVID-19 is a particularly challenging experience. The virus has resulted in a shift with regards to how some addiction programs and supports are delivered, disrupting the recovery process and leaving those afflicted at a higher risk of relapse.
In fact, even those without a previous addiction may succumb to the temptation of substance abuse while isolating in their homes.
Being aware of the connection between COVID-19 and addiction is essential for anyone who:
- Has a genetic predisposition to addiction
- Has depression, anxiety, an eating disorder, or a psychiatric condition
- Is living in an unhealthy home environment where physical/mental/emotional/sexual abuse is present
- Is experiencing high levels of stress (financial instability, job loss, death of a family member, etc.)
- Has struggled with addiction in the past and is currently in recovery
- Has a loved one who is struggling with addiction (or has in the past)
When we arm ourselves with accurate information, we can quickly identify warning signs and begin implementing supports and prevention plans, if necessary.
The Impact of COVID-19 Isolation
Social distancing and coronavirus safety protocols can affect those living with addiction (or those who are at risk) in many ways, including:
1. Lack of Person-To-Person Support
Many people who struggle with substance abuse rely on support groups, AA or NA meetings, or individual therapy sessions to maintain a healthy, substance-free routine. Furthermore, these interactions are often cathartic for those who struggle with substance abuse, and serve as a safe space where they can connect with others and communicate freely.
For a large portion of those struggling, the support of family members, social circles, or online communities is either non-existent or isn’t as effective.
2. Inability to Escape an Unhealthy Environment
Isolation is forcing many who live in the same household to spend far more time together than they would typically— for better or worse. When a relationship is already toxic, being confined to a single space with one another can worsen tensions and increase the severity of domestic abuse.
The residual impact of domestic violence is significant, as it has been directly linked to a higher risk of chronic disease, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, risky sexual behaviour and substance use.
3. Higher Stress Levels
One of the most concerning correlations between addiction and COVID-19 is stress. The virus has caused a sudden and substantial change in how businesses operate, with many being forced to lay off employees, reduce work hours, or close completely.
Furthermore, COVID-19 isolation is also readjusting our home lives. Many parents who aren’t typically home with their children around-the-clock are trying to adapt to their “new normal”. People who typically visit with family and friends regularly are unable to do so.
These drastic and abrupt changes can be triggering for those prone to addiction, making temptation more difficult to ignore.
What to Do If You are Struggling with Addiction During COVID-19 Isolation
If you begin experiencing any of the following triggers:
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Low energy/fatigue
- Consistent anxiety
- Irritability
- Change in sleep patterns
- A lack of interest in things they once loved to do
You could be at risk of developing an addiction or relapsing.
Below are some steps you can take to prevent substance abuse and remain healthy:
1. Practice Self-Care
Watch a movie that makes you laugh. Go for a walk, even if it’s just around the block. Journal about how you are feeling to get it off your chest. Even the tiniest acts of self-care can have a significant impact on how you feel.
2. Develop a Routine
Substance use is a form of instant gratification. At first, it seems to make you feel better. But in the long run, it leaves you feeling guilty, defeated, and ill.
Boredom can be a trigger of substance use. Developing a healthy, positive routine is one of the most effective ways to curb the enticement of drugs and alcohol caused by boredom.
Try committing to waking up at the same time each day, going for a walk each morning, taking a bath before bed, etc. The more you dedicate yourself to a routine, the less idle time you’ll have to think about using unhealthy habits to cope with difficult thoughts or emotions.
3. Focus on Your Next Step
One of the biggest mistakes those struggling with addiction make when trying to avoid substance use is thinking “I don’t think I can do this forever”.
Breaking the process down into small, achievable goals makes it feel more manageable and increases the likelihood of success.
For example, a mom-of-two who was recently laid off and is now spending the majority of her time at home may start to feel confined and overwhelmed by the drastic change in routine.
To cope, she has a bottle of wine in the evenings, which soon becomes a regular part of her daily regime.
Instead of focusing on not drinking wine, this mom may want to consider going for a bike ride in the evenings, listening to soothing music for stress relief, or chatting with a trusted friend. Time will pass by more quickly this way and make her feel “alive” rather than “deprived”.
The recovery process can be overwhelming if you think about the entire journey ahead. It’s best to take it one step at a time.
Where to Find Support When You Need It
There are two types of supports you can seek out when struggling with substance abuse:
1. Community Support
This form of support is not provided by healthcare professionals or addiction specialists. It is found through social networks, loved ones, and your greater community as a whole. Joining a recreational sports team, attending a prayer service at your preferred place of worship, or attending an addiction support group are all excellent ways to find encouragement, support and guidance within your community.
2. Professional Support
For more severe cases of substance abuse, community support alone may not be enough to conquer an addiction. Reaching out to your local health authority, entering an in-patient or out-patient program, calling a mental health crisis line, or visiting your local emergency room may be necessary. If you aren’t certain which option would best suit your needs, it is always a good idea to contact the mental health helpline in your area. They will be able to speak with you about your symptoms and substance use, and then connect you with the right supports.
Remember, all addictions are treatable and wellness thrives in connection— the more support you have, the more possible recovery becomes.
There are a ton of amazing services and organizations that can support you as you try to abstain from alcohol and drug use.
We’ve included an entire list of credible and high-impact resources on our website.
CLICK HERE FOR OUR FULL RESOURCE LIST
For more information about why connecting with others is so important for addiction recovery, we highly encourage watching the YouTube video below.
Everything You Think You Know About Addiction is Wrong – Johann Hari – TEDTalks
Do You Live in Alberta and Require Immediate Support?
Call the Alberta Health Services Addictions Helpline today. They are available to provide information and referrals 24 hours a day, seven days a week.