Help for Those Suffering from Opioid / Alcohol Addiction

Addiction is commonly referred to as a disease of isolation. Considering that Covid-19 feels like the pandemic of isolation, it only comes as a sad confirmation that there are several reports of the rise of opioid abuse and alcoholism.

If you suspect someone might be struggling with opioids, you can help. How?

Keep a watchful eye. Check-in (in a physically responsible way) on those around you. What to look for?

Common Signs of Opioid Addiction

The Johns Hopkins Opioid Addiction webpage reads:

• The inability to control opioid use

• Uncontrollable cravings

• Drowsiness

• Changes in sleep habits

• Weight loss

• Frequent flu-like symptoms

• Decreased libido

• Lack of hygiene

• Changes in exercise habits

• Isolation from family or friends

• Stealing from family, friends or businesses

• New financial difficulties

Signs of Alcoholism

The Alcohol Use Disorder page from the Mayo Clinic reminds us that:

Alcohol use disorder can be mild, moderate or severe, based on the number of symptoms you experience. Signs and symptoms may include:

• Being unable to limit the amount of alcohol you drink

• Wanting to cut down on how much you drink or making unsuccessful attempts to do so

• Spending a lot of time drinking, getting alcohol or recovering from alcohol use

• Feeling a strong craving or urge to drink alcohol

• Failing to fulfill major obligations at work, school or home due to repeated alcohol use

• Continuing to drink alcohol even though you know it's causing physical, social or interpersonal problems

• Giving up or reducing social and work activities and hobbies

• Using alcohol in situations where it's not safe, such as when driving or swimming

• Developing a tolerance to alcohol so you need more to feel its effect or you have a reduced effect from the same amount

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms — such as nausea, sweating, and shaking — when you don't drink, or drinking to avoid these symptoms

Finding Help

Both opioid addiction and alcohol use disorder are treatable. The qualified and experienced practitioners at Advanced Integrative Care might be just the right people to help. Contact us at info@nyholisticcare.com or (716) 277-0267 for more information.

PS

Yes, physical distancing (along with wearing a mask and handwashing) is required, however, it is equally mandatory that we maintain our relationships. Whether or not health issues are a concern, human connection is essential for our physical and mental health. Here's an interesting article, Finding Connection and Resilience During the Coronavirus Pandemic, from The New Yorker