For many people in America, COVID-19 has created uncertainty, fear, and economic losses. The recovery community is not immune to any of these problems. However, people in recovery, especially those who are relatively new to sobriety, are considered to be more vulnerable to the effects of the virus.

While no one can fix things or predict the future, the addiction and recovery communities are adapting. They don’t want anyone falling between the cracks. People in recovery all over the US (and the world), addicted persons are showing their resilience and strength as they bridge the gap left by the novel coronavirus.

12-Step Meeting Formats, Treatment Adapt to COVID-19

For many people, the 12-step rooms are a necessary and essential part of everyday life. With gatherings of 10 or more people banned in places across the United States, 12-step communities have taken their meetings online.

If you or somebody you love has a problem with alcohol or drugs, there are still treatment options available. However, each treatment center and detox program have different approaches. While some are taking newcomers, others are asking new prospects to participate in one-on-one treatment via telehealth (video cam and voice) groups. Call your local treatment centers to ask about their approaches.

If you are looking for a 12-step meeting to attend, there are many available. See options for AA meetings online or NA meetings online. Even in a pandemic, you’re never alone.

Medication-Assisted Treatment During COVID-19

While Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is considered the “gold standard” of treatment, in reality, many of the places that offer MAT are struggling due to the requirements for running such programs. D

ue to COVID-19, some areas have doubled up on doses or sent people home with additional doses of drugs like Methadone. Otherwise, many treatment centers are doing check-ins via video chat or staggered client visits.

Getting Help for Addiction

If you or somebody you love is struggling with addiction, there are still many options available. Contact a local health department to learn if they offer any new services during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as “sober buddies” or therapy groups online.

While it’s truly a scary time for everyone, substance abusers are more vulnerable to COVID-19 than the general population. There are many services available.  However, it will take phone calls and patience to set up something for somebody getting newly sober. Please, just hold on, and take sobriety a day at a time. You’re never alone, and there is help available even during this troubling era of our lives.