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COVID-19

& Substance Use

This is a particularly difficult time for people in recovery and those who are struggling with substance use disorder (SUD).

During the pandemic, the U.S. has seen a surge in drug and alcohol consumption, overdose rates, and requests for treatment. In fact, many recovery experts describe COVID-19 and its effects as a “perfect storm” for people struggling with substance dependence.

 According to experts from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), there has been a 30-40% increase in opioid-related overdose during the pandemic. 

 At the Collaborative Center, we offer counseling through telehealth video conferencing and in-person sessions at our offices at 1226A Columbia Road, South Boston.

 If you are in need of help, please contact us or refer to the resources section below.

Dealing With Addiction During a Pandemic

There are a number of factors that can lead to relapse and make people with SUD more vulnerable during this time, including

  • Social Isolation

  • Stress & Uncertainty

  • Stigma

  • Lack of access to treatment & community services

 

Further Reading

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ABC News

8/24/2020

ACCESS ARTICLE

Social Isolation

If you are familiar with the recovery community, you may have heard that “the opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety—it is connection,” a phrase coined in a popular TED Talk by Johann Hari.

Of course, it is important for everyone to follow quarantine and social distancing guidelines to keep us safe. However, an isolated environment creates unique challenges for people in recovery or those seeking help for SUD, who rely on meetings with counselors and the fellowship of 12-step programs. Building these in-person connections and building trust is important for people in all stages of recovery from substance use.

In the absence of social supports many important lifelines are disrupted. This can exacerbate tendencies to withdraw and isolate, which can lead to relapse.

 Social isolation also makes it less likely that an overdose will be witnessed in time for life-saving interventions.

 Furthermore, an increased rate of suicide during COVID-19 is big concern. In July, 2020 the Director of NIDA, Dr. Nora Vulkow, stated that between 15-30% of overdoses were suspected to be intentional and related to isolation due to the pandemic.

Stress & Uncertainty

Stress and traumatic experiences can be risk factors for drug use and addiction. Unfortunately, the pandemic has amplified environmental stressors such as unemployment, food insecurity, and domestic violence. Living under quarantine without the structure of regular work hours makes it difficult to maintain daily routines, which are important for people in recovery.

Evidence-based research shows that job loss is associated with increased depression and anxiety, lower self-esteem, and increased rates of substance use and/or suicide.

A KFF tracking poll from July 2020 found 53% of adults in the U.S. reporting their mental health has been negatively impacted due to stress and concern over COVID-19. This represents a significant increase from the 32% who reported the same symptoms in March.