Pandemic isolation adds another hurdle for those in drug recovery – By Renatta Signorini (Trib Live) / April 11 2020
Samantha Woollen is staying active in her recovery by talking on the phone with her counselor and participating in virtual Narcotics Anonymous meetings.
But she knows others may not be able to do the same.
“I know some people that don’t have phones … and they really need the help,” she said. “They really count on that one session.”
Isolation during the coronavirus pandemic has been tough at times for the 27-year-old Claridge mother of four who has been clean for nearly three years. Depression can creep in for some in her shoes when stability and routine disappear, she said.
“It can easily trigger somebody to use,” she said. “It’s all about stability and routine, and everybody’s out of their routine.”
Area drug rehabilitation and treatment centers are adjusting their approaches during the pandemic in hopes they can continue to meet the needs of those in recovery and others seeking help. Some have instituted telehealth services. Others are holding meetings in far reduced groups. Cleaning measures have been increased at facilities, and space at some inpatient centers has been designated for taking in new clients.
New patients are being accepted statewide, and substance-use disorder treatment is considered an essential service, said Jennifer Smith, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs.
Continue to article: https://triblive.com/local/westmoreland/pandemic-isolation-adds-another-hurdle-for-those-in-drug-recovery/
