12 May How Social Distancing Affects Your Recovery
Social distancing has become the newest phrase used worldwide these days. Due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the United States (and the rest of the world) have turned to the phrase “social distancing” to describe how we should interact with others.
For those in recovery, social distancing takes on a whole new meaning and requires more work to maintain that recovery.
SOCIAL DISTANCING AND RECOVERY
When we think about recovery, we think of someone who leans on a community for support and guidance. This can take many forms, whether it is 12-step meetings, therapy groups, individual and family therapy, etc. Since the pandemic started, the sense of community for those in recovery has dwindled, even for those now dealing with addiction, the sense of community has dwindled.
We’re no longer able to do the things we once did, like going to the beach, park, dinner, etc. People are forced to find other ways to make contact with others; for those in recovery, this can prove to be more difficult, especially people in early recovery.
The pandemic has created a sense of isolation for all of us. If you are in recovery, this can be more detrimental because you no longer have the ability to utilize coping skills you may have once identified. This may lead some of you to feel more anxious or depressed because what we once relied on no longer is available.
The start of this pandemic can create a sense of new beginnings in recovery due to being forced to learn new ways to cope with situations in comparison to using alcohol and drugs. From the beginning of this pandemic, liquor sales have increased twenty percent. Additionally, the sales of THC have also increased. For those not in recovery, this is a time where alcohol and drugs can appear to have few consequences and it helps the time in isolation pass. If you’re in recovery, substances are not an option to pass the time.
HOLD ONTO HOPE DURING YOUR RECOVERY
The recovery community has made an attempt to keep things “normal” and to allow for those needing community to be supported. Twelve-step meetings are taking on an electronic format, using Zoom conference calls. This virtual platform option allows those that need to be in the presence of like-minded people to get the support they still need. As we continue through these treacherous times, let us be mindful of those in recovery and the impact it has on their mental health.
THE FRAMEWORK RECOVERY TEAM IS HERE FOR YOU
You’re not alone, you’re far from it. You have a whole team of people here for you and who are willingly ready to support you. Please, if you have any questions or are in need of help during this unfortunate time, don’t hesitate to contact us at Framework Recovery: 949-342-4239