Keeping Your Sobriety During the Coronavirus Pandemic

What’s happening today, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic is indeed frightening. It can leave you anguished, helpless, stressed, and even depressed.

If you are already struggling with addiction, are on your recovery journey, or battling mental health symptoms, this time can be even more challenging, if not dangerous.

However, it’s important to maintain calm and keep things in perspective. Let’s take a closer look on how you can cope in a healthy way during this time of the coronavirus pandemic.

Keeping Safe and Healthy Inside and Out Amid the Coronavirus Outbreak

While this situation is stressful and dangerous for everyone on many levels, there are many healthy ways that you can manage the situation. Following these tips can help you you maintain sobriety and well-being.

1. Be picky about the information you’re getting. Make sure your coronavirus news comes from valid sources. The virus itself can be a big source of worry. Don’t let yourself be even more anguished due to the fake news or inaccurate information that’s going around. Be informed so that you can put things into better perspective. Turn to valid news sites, government agencies, and even talk to your own doctor.
2. Avoid information overload. While being informed about the coronavirus updates is a must, learn to pace yourself. Being overloaded with information can lead to stress too. Learn to unplug and find healthier diversions such as reading, playing games, taking up new hobbies, or watching movies.
3. Have a plan. Part of the stress and the panic come with being unprepared. Not knowing what to do or not having enough supplies can trigger anxiety. Stock your home with enough food, water, medications, and other essentials. Talk to your doctor about what you need to do if you have any underlying health conditions.
4. Accept what you can’t control. Preparing helps you be in control in this uncertain situation, but learn to accept that there are things that are out of your hand. Don’t obsess over what you can’t change as this brings even more stress and anxiety. This will allow you to adapt to a stiuation.
5. Take care of yourself. Follow the safety and health advisories of your community. Make sure you get enough sleep and exercise. Avoid junk food and always keep yourself hydrated.
6. Practice coping strategies. When panic and anxiety are unavoidable, take a few minutes to get yourself out of the situation and de-stress. You can meditate, take deep breaths, do yoga, or even just give yourself a few good stretches.
7. Check on your mental health. Get in touch with your therapist or other mental health professional through remote sessions or video calls.
8. Stay sober. Avoid alcohol and drugs. It may feel good to have a glass of wine to calm the nerves, but you know it’s not really going to help. Instead, distract yourself with other tasks. Talk to your loved ones and spend more time with family.

Bridges of Hope offers comprehensive and personalized treatment for people struggling with drug, alcohol, and behavioral addictions, as well as any co-occurring mental health disorders. Get in touch with us to learn more.