Avoid Relapsing During a Pandemic

 

 
By Steven Booth, Founder at Elevation Behavioral Health

It can be safely stated that this pandemic has not been kind to people in addiction recovery. For those folks who also have a co-occurring mental health condition, called a dual diagnosis, the past six months have been especially brutal. Increases in anxiety and depression have placed an additional burden on individuals in recovery, which has unfortunately resulted in relapse for many. Some may not recognize the signs of an impending relapse sneaking up on them until it is too late. Warning signs of a potential relapse include:

  • Neglecting sobriety support system. When someone begins to avoid connecting with their recovery support community, such as their sponsor or their 12-step group, it can be a warning sign for relapse.
  • Isolating behaviors. Individuals in recovery who begin to avoid social events or just communicating with friends and family members may be veering towards a relapse.
  • Forgoing healthy habits. Neglecting personal hygiene, general appearance, keeping an irregular sleep schedule, trading a healthy diet for junk food, or discontinuing regular workouts are signs of impending relapse.
  • Longing for the substance. Romanticizing past drug or alcohol use by ignoring the negative effects it had on their lives and beginning to buy into the false belief that they can handle “just one” is a red flag for potential relapse.
  • Being aware of these warning signs and committing to take the necessary steps to avoid a relapse is critical.

5 Ways to Avoid Relapse During Covid-19

In addition to remaining vigilant about responding to the signs of a potential relapse, it is important to be proactive about taking steps to prevent succumbing to relapse. There are several actions that will help reinforce sobriety during the pandemic. Consider these 5 tips:

  1. Stay connected to your recovery community. One of the best protective steps to prevent a relapse is remaining in regular contact with your sober support system. Continue to attend meetings where you will have peer support while being surrounded by A.A. quotes and fellowship.
  2. Avoid laziness if you are out of work. Many people have lost employment due to the financial fallout of COVID. It is tempting to wile away the days sitting on the couch playing video games or watching Netflix. Avoid this trap by doing something constructive during this time off from work.
  3. Stay physically active. Taking care of your physical health by getting regular exercise is essential. Being physically active releases endorphins, which reduce stress, and dopamine and serotonin that help improve mood.
  4. Tend to your mental health needs. If you are experiencing depression or anxiety due to the pandemic, seek the help of your therapist. Coexisting mental health issues can fuel a relapse, so reach out to a mental health professional when sobriety is threatened.
  5. Remain socially connected. Feelings of loneliness and boredom can pose a threat to recovery. Reach out to friends and find ways to connect either in person or via Zoom or Google Hangouts.

Elevation Behavioral Health is a residential mental health and dual diagnosis center in Los Angeles, CA.

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