Staying in is usually a privilege, but with the new measures of self-quarantine imposed by the US government to help stop the spread of COVID-19, it’s become the norm. No work, no school, and no unnecessary travel makes for a lot of together time with the family. And while that’s not generally a bad thing, it can become a little stifling after several days or weeks. If you’re beginning to feel a little boxed-in and beginning to have cravings because of the global coronavirus pandemic, here’s what you can do to help stay sober during the pandemic.
Get Comfortable at Home to Avoid COVID-19
It’s easy to begin feeling sorry for yourself during that second week. The sun is shining. The temperatures are warm… And you and your family are stuck at home. But regardless of how bored you become, it’s important to stay busy and get comfortable with your surroundings. Boredom can lead to temptations, which for people in recovery can be challenging. So, it’s important to make yourself as comfortable as possible by cozying up on the couch and reading a few good books. If you’re struggling with drug or alcohol cravings, don’t be afraid to reach out to an addiction treatment specialist to talk.
Take a Walk for Your Mental Health to Stay Sober During the Pandemic
If cabin fever is closing in fast, and the weather is nice, try getting outside for some quality exercise. Getting exercise works wonders for mental health by providing your brain with the dopamine and serotonin rush it craves. Physical exercise is a great substitute for drugs or alcohol, and exposure to sunlight gets your body producing vitamin D which is important for your overall health and happiness.
Order Takeout From Your Favorite Restaurant
The restaurant industry is struggling quite a bit during this coronavirus pandemic. Rather than falling victim to temptations to drink or indulge in other substance use, allow yourself to indulge in a delicious meal, and help out your local restaurant owners and staff. Enjoying a quality meal can help to stimulate the same parts of your brain that might be causing your cravings for alcohol or other substances.
Make a Few Video Calls
Your children are adept at keeping in touch with friends through video apps and chat rooms. But when is the last time you video-chatted with your sister, brother, or best friend? Using services such as Skype or Messenger to see a friend face-to-face is a great way to help beat the quarantine blues. Reconnecting with friends and family can help you to stay sober since you’ll want to show everyone that you’re doing well during a difficult time.
Self-quarantine to help stop the spread of the pandemic may easily make everyone in the house feel smothered, but it’s a necessity during this national crisis. Do what you can to keep yourself and your family engaged and entertained during the hiatus, and most importantly, don’t stop working on your recovery. It really won’t last forever, though it may feel that way once you’re a week or two in. Summer is still coming, and the sun is still going to rise tomorrow. You just have to focus forward.
Consider a Rehab Program to Stay Sober During the Pandemic
If being cooped up due to COVID-19 is causing your substance use to escalate, it may be time to consider contacting an addiction treatment center. Going into a residential treatment program is actually one of the smartest decisions you can make during this time. With businesses closed and schools shuttered, rehab offers a means of self-quarantine under medical supervision the entire time. If you’re unable to work or go to school during this time, it’s important to continue working on yourself rather than letting your addiction control your life.
If you’re struggling to stay sober during the pandemic, contact Right Step Rehab Hill Country online or call 1.844.675.1628 to speak with an addiction specialist today.