Addiction Recovery in a Time of Social Distancing

This article, "Addiction Recovery in a Time of Social Distancing: COVID-19 and Recovery-oriented Practice" by Oliver J. Morgan, explores the profound challenges faced by individuals with substance use and addictive disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has exacerbated existing societal stressors, leading to an increase in addiction-related issues as people turn to substances to cope with heightened anxieties and social isolation. Morgan highlights the intersection of addiction, trauma, and disconnection, emphasizing the importance of social connectedness in mitigating stress and promoting recovery. The article calls for sustainable, recovery-oriented practices that address the broader social and ecological factors contributing to addiction. It also advocates for the integration of evidence-based practices and innovative approaches, such as telehealth services, to support individuals in recovery during this unprecedented time.

  • Understand the impact of COVID-19 on individuals with substance use and addictive disorders

  • Explore the relationship between trauma, social disconnection, and addiction.

  • Analyze the role of social connectedness in mitigating stress and supporting addiction recovery.

  • Examine the challenges of maintaining addiction recovery during periods of social distancing and isolation.

  • Identify sustainable, evidence-based practices that can be implemented to support recovery in a pandemic context.

  • Evaluate the need for systemic and ecological changes to address addiction and support long-term recovery.