Most people entering recovery from substance abuse have it drilled into their heads that they must avoid isolation at all costs. It’s regularly reinforced that isolation is the enemy, and will pave the road to relapse. So, during this unprecedented time of social distancing, stay-at-home orders, and mandatory quarantine, how can we stay connected to each other and the solution?
We’ve got a few ideas!
Zoom, Zoom, Zoom
Zoom and other online meeting platforms have proven to be an invaluable tool for recovery meetings that have been forced to migrate online. But more than just hosting 12-step meetings, Zoom and other platforms are super useful for connecting in general. Getting some virtual time with familiar faces can offer a boost and a feeling of being in this together. Reach out to an old friend – in these crazy times, they won’t think it’s weird. Set up a Zoom game night with friends, or a check in with a trusted mentor or therapist.
Be of Service
The old standby: think of others. It works to get us out of a funk when nothing else does. Granted, being forced to be alone or isolated with one’s family for weeks at a time could make even a saint go batty. Self-pity, resentment, and anxiety are all par for the course. And although these feelings are to be expected, we don’t need to wallow in them. It might seem hard to be of service to others while maintaining a six-foot distance, but there are many creative ways to show up to people. Calling and texting are low-hanging fruit, and old-school ideas like cards and letters are even better for elderly friends or relatives who might be particularly in need right now. If you have kids, involving them in card decoration is a two-for-one. Being of service to people in your household is also worthwhile, and could ease some of the tension that might have arisen from prolonged stretches alone together.
Mindfulness
This is a good of a time as any to start a mindfulness or meditation practice, if you don’t have one already. Most of us are sitting around with an excess of time on our hands, and really no excuse to avoid this powerful practice. Mindfulness is linked to increased calm, resiliency, and overall wellness. If you don’t know where to start, check out one of our previous blogs, or one of the many podcasts or mediation apps. Insight Timer is a fan favorite, and there are countless others on YouTube.
Gratitude
We’ve talked before about the undeniable magic of gratitude for keeping up your spirits. Indeed, gratitude is a superpower. More than just a perspective, practicing gratitude is linked to improved physical health and mental well-being. It’s associated with better sleep, more energy, less depression and possibly even a lower risk of heart disease. Gratitude doesn’t need to be big. It’s not about landing that dream job or buying a home. Amazingly, research has shown that gratitude is just as potent when it applies to small things in our daily lives. So take a few moments to look around. Are you stuck indoors? Be grateful you have a house. Pausing to reflect on your appreciation for your health, your recovery, or even your cup of coffee can positively charge your mood and give you the boost you need to get through the day with some grace.
Structure First
In chaotic times, making an effort to maintain some structure and routine can be life saving. Try starting your morning by setting a few simple and attainable goals, and making a loose outline for the day. The more consistency you can bring to long stretches of unstructured time, the more grounded you will feel.
Keeping up with normal activities like exercise and work routines can bring a sense of normalcy—if you usually go to the gym, try taking a run, or one of the many home workouts available online. Trying to mirror the positive parts of a normal day can bring a fresh sense of sanity and purpose.
Take it Easy on Yourself
Like we said, these are challenging times for the best of us. Most of us have never experienced this level of upheaval or uncertainty in our entire lifetimes. Finding some self-compassion is key for staying sane. There is no roadmap for these crazy days, so try to remind yourself that you—and others—are doing the best you can. When we can offer ourselves compassion and gentleness, it becomes much easier to extend it to others. This will keep us connected and remind us that we are all it together, and our individual health is connected to our collective actions. We can’t get out of this thing alone – and that makes us more interdependent than ever before.
If you need some help or just to talk, reach out. We are here for you.
Orange County Recovery has implemented robust safety measures in response to the COVID-19 virus. The health and wellness of our clients, our staff, and our community are, as ever, our #1 priority. If you want to know more about our safety precautions, get in touch.
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