Drug Overdoses Soar During Pandemic

With the Coronavirus risks rising in the United States, another health crisis is in full swing. Reporting from the Washington Post illustrates some sobering statistics describing overdose deaths. Overdose deaths are spiking across the country.  More people are dying than last year. One example of this includes overdose deaths over a few months in Richmond that already outnumber all deaths the year before.

Why Are There More Overdoses?

The coronavirus has made it more difficult for people struggling with opioid use disorder. Drugs may be harder to get ahold of because the supply has been cut off from certain countries. Job losses are hitting some regions of the country pretty hard.

Overdoses can also be a result of increased isolation. Humans, by nature, are social creatures. People who were once sober are even relapsing at higher rates. Loneliness is terrible for most people. It’s especially tough for people addicted to substances and those who have mental health disorders. When a person overdoses on their own, they may not be able to call 911 during an overdose.

Data examined by the Washington Post also show more emergency room visits and 911 calls from suspected drug or alcohol toxicity. It also suggests that people addicted to drugs that have their supply interrupted are trying new drugs of drug dealers out of desperation. This can lead to accidental overdose deaths.

Can You Get Clean and Sober During Coronavirus?

When the coronavirus first hit the nation, everyone was caught by surprise. 12 Step meetings are face-to-face via software, and Medication-Assisted Treatment had disruptions. As time has gone on, a lot of these wrinkles have been ironed out a bit. There are sober buddies, hotlines, detox, and treatment centers that are working to meet the demand for addiction help during the pandemic.

Treatment centers are up and running in most states. Some cities are offering telehealth options. In many cases, Medication-Assisted Treatment is available for new clients. Treatment centers have been able to adapt to the era of the coronavirus. They have probably changed their admissions process to help keep everybody safe.

Getting Help for Addiction

People who need help for addiction still have the opportunity to get on the road to recovery from addiction. The hardest part of getting started is asking for help – but we’re here when you need us. Confidential Recovery provides a safe and compassionate starting point for you to take your first steps to heal your life. Get in touch to find out more about our services at 619-452-1200.

Scott Silverman Talks Getting Sober During COVID-19

Click the graphic above to watch Scott Silverman speak on KUSI News about how to get and stay sober – even in the midst of this coronavirus pandemic.