People with co-occurring disorders are at a high risk of suffering complications and worsening conditions during the coronavirus outbreak. If you are struggling with what’s happening in the world around you, you are not alone in this. Many men and women are worried about their future and what steps they have for getting help. Yet, for some, there is a real risk in dealing with these types of high-stress situations. For some, it may mean seeking out treatment for substance use disorders or depression. Do you need help right now? If so, contact our adolescent treatment center today.

You May Be at a Heightened Risk

Those who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders may be facing some very complicated situations right now.

• You feel lost as to what to do daily. Your routine is no longer in place.
• You’re worried about becoming ill.
• You may have physical concerns that put you at a higher risk of complications from coronavirus.
• You’re worried about your loved ones.
• Financial concerns are growing.

In all of these situations, your body and mind are taxed, having to deal with the influx of stress hormones. While this is happening to most people, those who have mental health disorders like these are more likely to struggle with complications.

Is Your Current Treatment for Substance Use Disorders or Depression Working?

As this current situation continues to play out, you may be overwhelmed with what steps to take to keep your existing depression treatment working. If you are currently receiving substance use counseling or taking medications for depression, you may be feeling like these treatments are no longer effective. You may start feeling the urge to drink or use drugs again. You may be worrying a lot more than you did or finding it hard to participate in life again.

Recognize that this is possible and could be happening to you. If you have substance use disorders, you already know that you are at risk of relapse if you increase your stress levels. What can you do about this?

• Contact your existing mental health provider to ask for support for depression treatment.
• If you are thinking about using drugs or alcohol, get to a support group.
• If there are no local support groups available due to coronavirus, look for online support groups.
• Turn to a friend to talk and really open up about what’s happening.
• Seek out immediate medical help by calling 911 if you are thinking about hurting yourself or others.

A high-stress situation like this puts you at risk of complications for your existing substance use disorders and depression. Yet, there is help available to you.

Tips for Managing the Current Situation

Perhaps you feel okay, but you are worried about how long you can manage coronavirus without relapsing or struggling with your current treatment plan. In these situations, it is important to take active steps to reduce stress.

• Find a way to have fun every day.
• Don’t focus on what’s on the TV or social media.
• Try to maintain a routine each day, even if it is a new one.
• Spend time with family members doing new things.
• Engage in meaningful conversations with other people.
• Find a way to mentor or support others.
• Find a way to give back to your community during these times.

Coronavirus will create more tension and stress for you. This puts you at risk of relapse. If you have been through dual diagnosis treatment, depression treatment, or other forms of treatment for substance use disorders, you have the skills to manage these situations. Additionally, you can use those skills to help prevent relapse from occurring. Most importantly, react soon if you are noticing that you are at risk of relapse.  Contact Foothills at Red Oak as soon as possible to begin working on more effective solutions.