The Covid-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges in all aspects of life. In the realm of mental health, isolation due to social distancing order has increased addiction cases. The pandemic has had a detrimental impact on all economies. Due to loss of livelihood, people are frightened, stressed, anxious, feeling helpless, and even depressed. If your loved one has ever struggled with addiction, this is the right time to keep an eye on him. The stress of the pandemic and feelings of isolation can cause addicts to turn back to their addiction.
Here is what you should do if you suspect your loved one has an addiction during the pandemic.
The Connection Between Isolation and Addiction
Stress and the feeling of inadequacy are the leading causes of addiction. During the current health crisis, numerous people are suffering from anxiety and high-stress levels. Since victims of addiction have no one to talk to, they are relying on drugs, alcohol, and other compulsive behaviors to deal with anxiety, stress, depression, and feeling of helplessness. The main challenge is the crisis has eradicated the traditional way of getting help. Therefore, a significant number of people are likely to rely on what they have available, and that can result in more substance abuse. .
How to Help Someone Struggling with Addiction Amid Covid-19
A lot of empathy has been expressed over the mainstream media towards people struggling with addiction during the crisis. However, unless action is taken, victims will continue struggling on their own. According to professionals, you should not turn a blind eye to someone who is struggling with substance abuse. The earlier a medication is initiated, the higher the chances of recovering within a short time.
So how can you let your loved one know that he needs help? This is the most daunting aspect when dealing with an addict. Most of them are not willing to quit substance abuse. Even if you can’t force someone to seek help, there are still some remarkable things you can do to initiate the recovery process. Here are the actions you can take:
Check in With Them
Even if it is evident that your loved one is battling an intense substance abuse challenge, they may think they have you duped. Addicts will do all they can to hide their actions. Assume nothing is wrong and spend time with them to discuss how they are progressing amid the pandemic. Ask them if they need any help, especially during these desperate times. This will make them feel loved and know that someone still cares about them. After establishing trust, they might decide to open up.
Enlighten Yourself on Addiction
If your loved one is succumbing to substance abuse and other compulsive behaviors, the first thing you should do is conduct extensive research about addition. Research on various types of rehabs, such as residential and outpatient programs, and find out how they offer support.
Enlighten yourself on signs of addiction, how it is like the detox process, and the remedies of addiction. If you are open with the victim, check on their insurance provider to see what is covered.
Prepare to Help Them
If your loved one is battling substance abuse, step up, and be there for them. It doesn’t necessarily mean financial support, but instead, show love and help them to choose the most appropriate treatment option. During the pandemic, a virtual meeting with a mental health expert might help.
How to Access Support During the Pandemic
During the current crisis, everything has moved online. Smart recovery centers are offering their support online. However, residential rehab programs are still offering in-person meetings. There is no need to worry since these facilities are employing safety guidelines to offer protection to both staff and clients.
Nowadays, most outpatient therapy sessions are provided via software programs such as Google Meet, Skype and Zoom. Let the spread of the virus not make your loved one suffer for a long time while treatment can still be obtained. So, kick stigma away and stand up for your loved one, irrespective of the current crisis.