Addiction and Substance Use Recovery During COVID-19

For those suffering from alcohol or substance abuse, this is an especially challenging and vulnerable time. Various stressful factors like COVID-19 and isolation from others have caused issues like substance use or alcohol addiction to worsen amongst some. This is particularly alarming because persistent use of alcohol or drugs can pose serious health risks due to a weakened immune system and stress on other important areas of your body. 

Alcohol

Consuming alcohol can make it more likely that you contract infectious diseases because you are weakening your immune system. However, it’s important to proceed with caution when it comes to treating alcohol addiction. Restricting access can cause alcohol withdrawal and possibly lead to serious symptoms and death.

Mental Health and Stress

With the mental toll that COVID-19 has brought upon so many, feelings of stress and anxiety have increased correspondingly. While some have turned to harmful activities like drug use or alcohol consumption to deal with these feelings, there are many healthier alternatives. Finding ways to relax, taking your mind away from negativity and toxicity, while also having fun are some of the things you can do to alleviate stress.

Vaping and Smoking

It’s recognized that smoking or vaping can lead to damage to your lungs and cancer. However, during this period of time with COVID-19, vaping and smoking are especially dangerous and risky activities. Those who smoke or vape and fall ill to COVID-19 are at risk of long-term health complications.

Substances

In particularly stressful times such as this, some turn to substance and drug use as a means of escape. However, whatever short-term benefits that drugs and substances like cocaine, opioids, and methamphetamines may seem to provide, their severe consequences outweigh it all. Cocaine usage is dangerous because it can cause damage to your lungs and respiratory system. Moreover, Opioids when taken at high doses can lead to overdoses and even death. Finally, Meth use can cause high blood pressure and pulmonary damage due to constriction of blood vessels.

If you or someone you know is dealing with strong harmful cravings or relapses, it’s important to seek immediate help. Your path to recovery from substance abuse or alcohol addiction can begin at Twin Town Treatment Centers. We offer comprehensive evidence-based treatment programs that are welcoming and safe. Twin Town Treatment Centers operates six stellar facilities throughout Los Angeles and Orange County. Our team of experts will provide you with a structured support system along with well-rounded care that will help you heal and develop. Call us today at (866) 594-8844 to get started with an initial assessment.