Working at home is becoming increasingly common due to the safety concerns posed by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Many of the country’s biggest employers are allowing employees to work from home until the end of 2020. Some, such as Facebook, have even said employees would be allowed to work from home till summer 2021 to better accommodate the remote learning needs of their children.
Growing evidence suggests that the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic is leading to an increase in risky drinking behavior. According to a recent Nielsen report, sales of at-home alcohol have spiked 27% since the start of the pandemic. The Department of Health and Human Services and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration report that the number of people seeking treatment for alcohol abuse is increasing steadily throughout the United States, with the greatest percentage in areas where the coronavirus has hit hardest.
If you’ve suddenly found yourself with more free time on your hands due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, you’re not alone. To fight boredom, boost your mood, and keep yourself on track with your recovery efforts, consider using this time to explore your creative side.
For people in recovery, creative pursuits can:
None of us can predict the future, no matter how much we try. However, the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has made it particularly difficult for people in recovery to continue moving forward in their quests to build lives free from the burden of addiction. If you’re struggling with how COVID-19 has upended your career, finances, relationships, and treatment plans, this post will offer some tips to help you cope with uncertainty without putting your recovery at risk.
Many people in recovery have found that the stress and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic have made it more difficult to manage their cravings. However, keep in mind the HALT acronym, which can help you remember your triggers and proactively manage your recovery. HALT stands for:
The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has created a sharp increase in the number of adults experiencing depression symptoms. People who are in recovery for drug or alcohol addiction are already predisposed to struggling with depression, so it’s important to be proactive about managing your mental health during these uncertain times.
Change is hard. It’s human nature to want to put off tasks that require a monumental change in your lifestyle—even when you know it would be in your best interest to take that first step. However, there’s no reason to let COVID-19 fears keep you from seeking drug or alcohol addiction treatment at Waypoint Recovery Center’s South Carolina residential program.
People in recovery are still learning how to manage their stress and anxiety without substance abuse. This is challenging under normal circumstances but particularly difficult during a global pandemic. Refer to this list of tips to help you find ways to support your loved one in recovery as we all continue to navigate the evolving coronavirus public health crisis.