Alcoholism & COVID-19: Overcome Recovery Challenges in Isolation

The global outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has caused widespread panic as people are quarantined in their homes, restaurants are shut down, and the number of cases continue to rise. In the midst of all of this uncertainty, it’s natural for anxiety to creep in, but this may be especially difficult to manage if you are struggling with alcoholism. If you are battling alcoholism during these uncertain times, we’d like to offer some advice to help you overcome recovery challenges in isolation due to COVID-19.

COVID-19 & Alcoholism

Social distancing is being globally encouraged to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Isolation from friends—and even family—can be especially trying, and may cause a few different challenges as you’re working towards sobriety:

Increased anxiety
Loneliness
Boredom
Wavering job/financial security

If alcoholism is/was your coping mechanism for dealing with your feelings during tough times, you may be at risk of giving in to temptation while in isolation.

Overcoming Isolation Challenges

There are ways that you can prevent yourself from falling back into poor drinking habits during this difficult time:

Decreasing Anxiety

While it’s important to stay up to date on the progression of the coronavirus, you may want to consider limiting your time reading and watching the news, which is a constant reminder of this unprecedented situation. It’s also imperative that you practice self-care. Try to establish a routine while in isolation, incorporating activities like riding your bike, reading, cooking, and any other activity that relaxes your mind. It is important to keep yourself busy and healthy to avoid temptation.

Combating Loneliness & Boredom

While we may be in isolation, it doesn’t mean we can’t have social interaction. There are plenty of virtual outlets to engage with others and enjoy some fun activities. Consider scheduling a daily facetime call with a loved one for a sense of stability. Or, join an activity with friends such as an online fitness class, setting up Netflix Party to watch shows together, or playing your favorite video game online. These activities—and more—will help you curb loneliness, boredom, and temptation.

Confronting Wavering Job & Financial Security

It is understandable that your job and financial security may be at the forefront of your mind, as countless industries are being affected by shut-downs due to COVID-19. We recommend talking to your employer about the current status of the company. Ask if there is a potential for layoffs or pay cuts, and begin to make a plan of action.

If you believe your job/financial security may be at risk, know that many banks, electric companies, mortgage companies, and more are deferring payments due to COVID-19. If you are concerned that you cannot make a payment, be sure to reach out to your provider immediately to discuss what options they are offering.

Also note that if you make $75,000 or less in a year, you will be receiving a $1,200 stimulus check from the US government. Couples that make $150,000 or less are eligible to be awarded $2,400, and each dependent is eligible to be awarded $500.

With this in mind, you need to create a financial plan. Add up all of your fixed expenses and estimate your variable expenses. Assess how much each paycheck will cover and if you have enough savings to make up any potential deficit, and for how long. Having a solid idea of your financial situation and a plan of action to address it can make you feel more secure in these uncertain times. Working towards sobriety comes down to developing skills to combat difficult situations without turning to alcohol.

Contact Myrtle Beach Recovery

We understand that this is a scary time, and we are here to help you overcome recovery challenges in isolation due to COVID-19. If you need more professional assistance and guidance in combating alcoholism, don’t hesitate to reach out to Myrtle Beach Recovery today. We offer short-term and long-term recovery programs, providing a safe place to work through the 12 Steps.

/by clickgiant