How COVID-19 is Affecting Substance Use and Addiction Treatment
It’s been said before: This year hasn’t been easy. But the stress of social isolation and other COVID-19-related changes have left those struggling with substance use and alcohol addiction particularly vulnerable. This pandemic has created fear, anxiety and isolation, which are often triggers for relapse. In fact, more than 40 states have reported increases in opioid-related mortality as well as ongoing concerns for those with mental health or substance use disorders.
We understand how difficult it can be to seek addiction treatment under normal circumstances. Add in a pandemic, and the decision to enter an inpatient rehabilitation treatment program becomes that much more difficult.
We are here for you…
Inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment is available
While we’re accepting people who are in need of inpatient treatment—out of an abundance of caution for you and our staff—walk-in assessments have been temporarily suspended. Instead, we have made many of our services available via telemedicine.
Like with any other chronic illness or disease, you should not delay treatment, even during a pandemic. The team of specialists at Gateway Rehab is closely monitoring the evolving situation, carefully following all guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and taking specific measures to protect you, your family, our employees and the communities we serve.
Stay the course…
The importance of seeking treatment during a pandemic
Unfortunately, there has been a national increase in treatment abandonment during COVID-19. Due to a unique mix of circumstances related to COVID, many people are leaving treatment too soon and returning home without the necessary tools for managing addiction. It’s vital to have a strong support system during and after treatment to lower the risk of treatment abandonment and relapse.
But the impact of leaving treatment early extends past not being able to manage addiction. Once patients leave treatment and re-enter a level of isolation, they are at an increased risk of relapse and even overdosing, as tolerance levels go down during treatment.
We’re dedicated to your lifelong recovery and offer a variety of specialized programs tailored to your unique needs. We give you all the tools you need to stay on the path of recovery and enjoy your best possible life.
We are ready to help you on a path toward healing, self-acceptance, and a life free of substance use. Call Gateway Rehab at 866-861-6280 to find out how to get the help you need during this pandemic and long after.
