Everyone is facing stressful situations right now. Some have lost jobs, some have lost family members, some are just feeling lonely and depressed.
All of these situations can be huge triggers for many people struggling with substance abuse. If you’re unable to visit your loved ones because of the pandemic, it can make it that much harder for everyone involved.
Here’s what you can do to help your loved one from a distance.
Your Virtual Support Can Make a Difference
Even if you can’t show up in person, your support can mean a lot to someone who may be in crisis. Check in with phone calls or text messages on a regular basis, letting them know you are there if they need to talk. Offer empathy, not blame, and show love. Encourage healthy coping strategies like exercise and meditation, and suggest virtually participating in these activities together. If they ask, you can also connect them with helpful resources for coping with addiction during the pandemic.
Dealing With Relapse
“Relapse is part of recovery” is a standard saying in 12-step groups for a reason—many people battling addiction do slip up at some point, especially early on. If you know or suspect your loved one has fallen off the wagon during this challenging time, encourage them to attend virtual meetings and seek help from a professional.
Take Care of Yourself, Too
If you are far away from a family member and worried that they have relapsed or could be about to, it’s important to remember that your support can help them but it also cannot change the overall situation. Maintain any boundaries (financial or otherwise) that you have set, and set aside time to process your own emotions. Support groups like Al-Anon, Nar-Anon or Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families can help, as well as dedicated counseling.
