Seek the help you need to deal with social isolation
Lately, it feels likewe are all dealing with changes that are out of our control due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In the last few months, we have had physical distancing requirements. Wework, go to school and go to medical appointments virtually. We have had to learn newways of surviving and howto interact with each other. These sudden changes can be the root of mental and emotional issueswe may be tackling.
For most people, living in a virtualworld is a game-changer. That includes those of us who are dealing with addiction. Just as no one is immune toCOVID-19, no one is immune to addiction, either.
Many medical offices, including mental health and addiction treatment facilities, are not at full intake capacity because of physical distancing requirements. But virtual meetings, counseling sessions and telehealth are all newways of providing mental health and substance use services.
Care you need
Therewas a significant increase in opioid-related overdoses and deaths at the height of the pandemic. People may be more reluctant to seek treatment out of fear ofCOVID-19. Despite the pandemic, there is always help available. We encourage you to seek it if you need it.
Many facilities are following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations and safety guidelines for COVID-19. These guidelines include
screening all patients and employees for symptoms before they enter the buildings. Requiring masks and temperature checks.
Help for your family
Substance use disorder affects not just the person dealing with addiction. It also affects their family members and loved ones, and the relationships they have with them.
Some facilities provide family workshops so patients and families can heal together. These can help family members better understand addiction. These workshops also help with communication skills, prevention strategies and coping mechanisms.
Join groups
At Anne ArundelMedical Center’s Pathways, we provide the FamilyWellnessWorkshop twice monthly. Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous are groups that help people who are battling addiction. You can attend meetings virtually and stay in contact with your sponsor.
There is also the faith-based community, which has some great resources for you and your family.
You can also contact the Anne Arundel Crisis ResponseWarmline at 410-768-5544 to find help.
Addiction is not a reflection of moral character. We have to knowand trust that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Medical and treatment facilities are open and available. Don’t let your illness manifest and growuntil it tears you down.
And please knowthat you are not alone. We are all in this together. Andwe need towork through it together.
Keshia Brooks is supervisor of Prevention Education and Family Wellness at Pathways, Anne ArundelMedical Center’s substance abuse and mental health treatment facility. Contact her at 410-573-5422.