Now, more than ever, those with substance abuse disorders (SUDs) need access to compassionate substance abuse treatment. The global COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic impact on those affected by drug and alcohol addiction. People who regularly use drugs and alcohol report a number of negative impacts since the pandemic began, including increased usage, relapse, overdose and more.
COVID-19 Is Increasing Substance Abuse
A 2021 study by The Center for Addiction and Mental Health notes that during this pandemic, regular users of psychoactive substances are at greater risk for substance and health-related harms, including overdoses and a decreased ability to mitigate risk behaviours. The study notes that about 47 percent of respondents said their substance abuse has gone up during COVID, while about 38 percent said they were more at risk of overdose.
Meanwhile a 2020 ODMAP study in Baltimore found almost an 18 percent increase in suspected overdoses, with overdoses shifting from urban locations to surrounding suburban and rural areas. The number and duration of overdose spikes have increased nationally, the study found.
The data makes sense, as stress is often a trigger for overconsumption of alcohol and drugs. During lockdown many people suffered from a sense of isolation—as well as anxiety and depression—and began to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.
And those with substance abuse disorders are more likely to get COVID-19, a Molecular Psychiatry study found. On top of that, substance abusers have worse symptoms from the virus and have a higher risk of hospitalization and death.
Reno Behavioral Can Help With Substance Abuse
One of the reasons for the spike in SUD-related issues is the lack of access to support services and networks. The lack of a strong support system, especially due to the pandemic, is a major risk factor for substance abuse.
Another major risk factor is a sudden life change and/or negative event. While this risk factor has affected almost everyone on a global basis, those suffering from SUDs are especially sensitive.
Even as COVID-19 continues to affect our world, Reno Behavioral Health is providing substance abuse treatment in a caring, compassionate and safe environment. It is important to address substance abuse issues early to prevent larger problems in the future.
The Reno Behavioral Healthcare Hospital team has decades of experience helping patients with substance abuse issues, including those with both SUD and mental health conditions.
Our treatment programs include individual and group therapy sessions where patients learn strategies to form new, healthy patterns and behaviors as well as create supportive environments at home.
If you think you need help with a substance abuse problem, call us today for a free, confidential assessment at 775-393-2201, or fill out our online form. Your journey of recovery begins here.