The current pandemic is influencing individuals and businesses worldwide. Whether it is physical or emotional, COVID-19 has impacted our daily lives in unprecedented ways.
If you are one of the millions of Americans struggling with addiction, COVID-19 may be testing your resolve. COVID-19 has left many people temporarily without work and has forced them to self-quarantine and keep physically distant from their social network, including those sober supports like sponsors, friends, and family. This distance along with the fear of the future has made many people feel tempted to turn to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Fighting the Habit
Current events and self-isolation may become triggers for those struggling with drug addiction. A trigger is a reminder of the past; it can be a person, a place, an item, or even a song or smell, that leads to using. For many individuals in recovery, being quarantined alone could trigger a relapse into old habits of drug or alcohol use.
Understanding your trigger
If you understand your triggers, it is easier to manage the feelings they can create. If feeling alone is a trigger, the self-distancing of COVID-19 may be difficult for you. Even if this isn’t the case for you, it can be helpful to talk to someone about what you are feeling.
Who can I talk to for support during this pandemic?
It is important to remember that while you may have to remain physically distant from your support network, you can still be social thanks to technology. Technology allows you to stay connected to your support network, whether by calling, texting, social media, or video chats. You can share how you are feeling and receive support in return. There are also many hotlines available to help you where you can talk about your circumstances without judgment.
Talking to someone each day can help boost the social element you need to feel supported, even when you are self-isolated. Engaging in communication with social supports can help alleviate boredom and keep you connected to your sober community.
Coping with boredom without drugs
Drugs and alcohol are often used to cope with difficult situations, including boredom. During this time, it is probable you feel somewhat bored. While talking to other people is the biggest way to cope in isolation, there are other ways to cope with your boredom without falling into bad habits.
- Reorganize your furniture
- Spring-clean
- Meditate
- Create a mood/vision board
- Exercise
- Play virtual games with friends
- Try a new skin routine
- Follow a cooking video
- Do something creative
- Shop online
- Play video games
- Watch a movie
Mix up your routine with something fun! Make sure that you do something every day to take care of yourself–whether that means taking a shower or eating three healthy meals a day.
Seek professional guidance
If the effects of isolation start to overwhelm you, seek professional guidance about your experiences for help. Therapists at Alvarado Parkway Institute offer support for those struggling with substance use via virtual group therapy and individual counseling sessions.
If you feel that you or someone you know could use some additional help during this time, contact Alvarado Parkway Institute today for support.
Moving forward each day with the goal to cope in healthy ways will help you feel in control of a difficult situation.
