The ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many societal changes, including a correlation between COVID and addiction susceptibility. Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, there has been an increase in substance abuse and drug overdoses in the U.S. Concerningly, those with substance use disorders are also at an increased risk for unfavorable COVID outcomes.
At Midwest Center at Youngstown, we understand how addiction and pandemic-related stress go hand in hand. We provide comprehensive treatment for substance use disorder in Ohio to help address the increased addiction rates in our state. If you or someone you love is suffering from substance use disorder, learn more about our treatment options and individual counseling services by calling 844.544.0502.
How COVID and Addiction Are Related
COVID-19 presented many unique challenges as things changed rapidly due to quarantine. This unprecedented event instigated a range of thoughts, feelings, and mental health issues that people struggled to manage, including:
- Fear
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Uncertainty
One of the most unfortunate things about quarantine was that it caused people to panic, and sometimes, panic turns to stress. With limited options for stress relief due to quarantine, many people began to rely on drugs and alcohol.
Since the start of the pandemic, more Americans have reported using substances to cope with stress. Consequently, there has also been a nationwide increase in overdoses.
COVID and Rehab: Increased Demand for Addiction Treatment
The substance most on the rise since the start of the coronavirus pandemic is opioid painkillers, which is likely because they are readily available. Opioids are a class of drugs usually prescribed for pain relief. Some commonly prescribed opioids are oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, and morphine. Some symptoms of opioid use are:
- Loss of coordination
- Shallow, slow breathing rate
- Intense nausea or vomiting
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritability
Concerningly, extended use of opioid painkillers may result in health problems, including damage to vital organs. The undeniable relationship between COVID and addiction to opioids brings to light the need for effective addiction treatment in Ohio and throughout the country.
Heal from the Effects of COVID and Addiction at Rehab
Substance use disorder is complex, and each situation is unique. With that in mind, there are various programs and treatments to help you during your recovery. Some of the programs and services provided at rehab are:
- Group counseling – This allows for you to meet with others in recovery. One of the goals of group therapy is to build a network of support.
- Individual counseling – The use of individual counseling addresses underlying issues that lead to addiction.
- Fitness programs – These relieve stress and build a foundation for living a healthier life.
- Family programming – These help your loved ones learn about addiction and find ways to resolve conflict.
- Medication-assisted treatment – Medications can ease withdrawal symptoms and curb cravings.
Some of the following therapies may also be part of substance abuse treatment:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Acceptance and commitment therapy
- Experiential therapy
- Trauma therapy
Science and evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT are an essential part of addiction treatment programs, along with holistic and mindfulness-based therapies. If your mind, body, and soul are aligned, treatment is more powerful.
Midwest Center at Youngstown Provides Rehab to Support You Post-COVID
At Midwest Center at Youngstown, we recognize the various factors that contribute to substance use. Our programs are evidence-based, personalized, and designed to help individuals and families. Our specialized treatment programs address:
- Alcohol addiction
- Opioid addiction
- Prescription drug addiction
- Stimulant addiction
We understand that addiction is a complex disease. At Midwest Center at Youngstown, we want to help you develop healthy coping skills during these unprecedented times. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, please reach out. Call us at 844.544.0502 to speak with a team member about our programs and services.