ROBINSON, TX — Experts say high anxiety during social distancing can be damaging for those in recovery from drugs and alcohol.
The pandemic has spiked alcohol sales across the county. In fact, according to Nielsen, off-premises alcohol sales have spiked to 68 percent higher than this time last year.
Its the fear of experts that when the pandemic's restrictions are lifted and social distancing is reduced, substance consumption will be problematic.
“Thousands and thousands and thousands of people die every year to alcoholism and this could make it even worse, and I pray that it doesn’t but at the rate, that the numbers are coming out, of consumption, it’s not looking very good at all,“ explained Stephen O'Dell, CFO and Part Owner of Stages of Recovery Waco.
O'Dell speaks from experience as he prepares to celebrate his 11 year sobriety this month.
He explains social distancing/quarantining during the coronavirus could prove damaging to those at the beginning of their recovery journey.
“People are experiencing isolation like they never have before, and so isolation can lead to stress, which leads to unhealthy coping skills...and so I think it was the abrupt changing, of somebody’s routine that they were in, especially those that were early on in the recovery, that really caused the damage," said O'Dell.
He said many people have sought council on what to do during this time to continue their sobriety.
“ Specifically for the people who just entered recovery that early on in their recovery, they had a system that was in place, assisting them with their process, that system was just removed...what am I going to do about my meetings, am I able to still see my support system, am I allowed to still meet with my sponsor, and these types of things and the answer was no, you’re not supposed to be doing those things right now,“ said O'Dell.
He said many clinics and centers that are dedicated to supporting those through their sobriety have adjusted quickly to virtual groups.
“So many providers have switched to telehealth, there are nationwide 12 step meetings happening on all kinds of platforms“ said O'Dell.
Experts explained that during this time, if someone is seeking treatment or therapy for drug or alcohol related needs, to reach out to their insurance company for direction; and if not insured reach out to a local clinic or support group to help provide options during this time.
