Substance use disorder is on the rise during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Prior to the pandemic, we were in an opioid crisis, and now we add all that uncertainty in our lives to it,” says Cassie Damato at SummitStone Health Partners. She also states that all the factors that contribute to increases in drug and alcohol abuse are exaggerated during a global health pandemic.
Addictions have risen across all economic and social spectrums as well as the young and the old. Many people are now using drugs and alcohol to cope with the uncertainty and hardships that 2020 has brought. And now we are seeing an increased percentage of substance use disorders.
The increased awareness around mental health and the reduced stigmas surrounding it help to get more people the treatment they need. Along with getting treatment for substance abuse, it is also helpful for some to seek therapy and practice self-care. As we adapt to a new normal, we have the ability to help people and let them know they aren’t alone.