Read the entire article on The Christian Science Monitor's website here.
[...]
Amid concerns of increased anxiety and isolation during the pandemic, technology has helped many in recovery hold onto social support and treatment through online mutual support groups, telehealth, and apps. Overcoming the disease of addiction is never easy, and relapse is common. But for some who need help, their willingness to adapt affirms advocates’ message from all along, pandemic or not: Recovery is possible.
“I just want to give a message of hope,” says Sarah Rollins, a Michigan social worker. “This is not something that has to be a life sentence.”
[...]
Connecting with peers can help those trying to hide their addiction and use alone, says Ms. Rollins, senior social worker at University of Michigan’s Addiction Treatment Services in Ann Arbor, who has led virtual therapy during the pandemic.
“One of the biggest reasons for social support is it decreases the shame. It increases accountability,” she says. “No one gets better shaming themselves.”
[...]
