Paramount In The Pandemic

With the celebration of Juneteenth and July 4th behind us for the year 2021, the pandemic is still a huge concern. How is Covid 19 affecting those in recovery?

What do I look for?

By now we have probably all heard about the pandemic, symptoms, precautions, procedures and getting vaccinated. People in recovery from addiction are more likely to run into the more harmful factors of the Covid 19 pandemic. One of the most detrimental issues is hygiene. It is normal for those addicted to hard drugs to not practice good hygiene and in the case of a pandemic could become a health risk to others. Also with the stress levels rising, the drug and substance use has risen. According to the NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse) the use of drugs has risen since the pandemic started.

What can someone in recovery do?

It is crucial to stay away from drug related areas, addicts that are not in recovery and to take recovery more serious than before. Also use all successful methods, resources, shelter, precautions and contacts needed to stay in recovery. Watch out for Symptoms of exposure to the virus that are noticeable. Someone displaying the following symptoms could have been exposed to Covid 19.

Constant Cough

Fever or chills

Fatigue

Congestion or runny nose

Nausea or vomiting

Trouble breathing

Confusion

Inability to wake or stay awake

Tip:

The simple way is sometimes the most effective way. Social distancing, staying at home, not making physical contact and video communication all embody one concept. The word "avoid" is powerful during the pandemic. Avoid addicts that are not in recovery!