The outbreak of terrifying pandemics has a way of flooding social media with memes and jokes about coping with stress through excessive drinking. As COVID-19 spreads, many are hoarding toilet paper and alcohol. I understand the humor—well, not the toilet paper part—but the notion of downing margaritas to cope with homeschooling or sharing a workspace with a partner is a relatable jest. However, for some, that humor can have deadly consequences.
As someone in recovery from alcoholism, maintaining sobriety has become a daily ritual that I check off to ensure I’m prioritizing my health and recovery. With our lives turned upside down, many sober individuals, including myself, are facing challenges. If you find sobriety difficult, consider the struggles of those battling addiction who are tempted to self-medicate during these trying times. Stress, isolation, and anxiety can trigger the very emotions that drove us to drink or use substances in the first place.
The chaos motivating the trend of jokes about needing alcohol to survive is a constant reality for addicts; the pandemic has only intensified this turmoil. Our usual support systems and safe spaces have vanished, replaced by dangerous thoughts and behaviors. Yet, we must remember that our past experiences have equipped us for this battle. We have weathered storms before, and we will do so again. While self-care may look different now, we are capable of adjusting to the changes we face.
Here are some strategies that I and others in recovery are implementing to stay on track during these tumultuous times:
Engage with a Virtual Community
Each week, recovering addicts come together online, introducing ourselves and acknowledging our struggles as a form of accountability and solidarity. We need support without shame to maintain our sobriety. Johann Hari’s insightful book, Chasing the Scream, emphasizes the importance of community, labeling it as the antidote to addiction. During this period of social distancing, we risk relapse if we neglect to nurture our social networks that keep us grounded.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) now offers online meetings via Zoom, available daily at various times for individuals at different recovery stages. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) also provides phone and virtual meetings. Additionally, apps have emerged in response to COVID-19, such as the Connections App, developed by the Addiction Policy Forum and CHESS Health, which fosters connections among those in recovery and provides valuable resources like digital cognitive behavioral therapy. Don’t hesitate to utilize platforms like Facebook, Skype, or FaceTime to keep in touch; our community is still accessible.
Move Your Body, Shift Your Mind
Physical exercise is a cornerstone of my recovery. It alleviates stress, enhances sleep, and boosts my mood—essentially replacing the need to drink. When I feel restless, I opt for a run or a workout. Even gentle activities like walking or yoga can be beneficial. While we miss our regular workout buddies at the gym or studio, many fitness facilities have transitioned to offering online classes. For instance, The Phoenix organization, which supports recovery through physical activity, is currently providing free virtual classes. You can also find plenty of effective body-weight exercises to do at home.
Reach Out for Support
Stay connected by calling your sponsor, sponsee, therapist, or supportive friends. Engaging with others who understand your journey can alleviate feelings of isolation. National hotlines are available, including the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, which offers confidential support around the clock.
Establish Boundaries
Being confined with family members can feel overwhelming. With everyone at home, it’s essential to communicate your needs clearly. As a recovering alcoholic, my children are significant triggers for me. I am upfront with them and my ex-partner about my need for specific guarantees in my day to maintain my well-being. It’s crucial for everyone to express their needs and create a plan to ensure they get the necessary time for themselves. It’s perfectly okay to set aside an hour for a meeting or workout, make a phone call, or simply engage in personal time.
Approaching this pandemic as I do my sobriety—one day at a time—has become my mantra. The uncertainty of the future can be daunting, but I can focus on what I need to accomplish today to ensure I end the day sober. If taking it day by day feels too daunting, break it down further into hours, minutes, and breaths. We are capable of overcoming this.
In summary, staying sober during the coronavirus pandemic poses unique challenges, but by connecting with virtual communities, engaging in physical activity, reaching out for support, and setting boundaries, we can navigate this storm together. For more insights on related topics, visit this blog post or explore intrauterine insemination resources. For expert advice on related matters, check out this authoritative resource.