How Anxiety in Quarantine Can Lead to Addiction

At San Antonio Recovery Center, we offer dual diagnosis treatment programs that address mental health and substance use disorders. If mental health disorders have led you to self-medicate through drug and alcohol abuse, we can help.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals have spent an increased amount of time alone. For those in recovery, isolation and anxiety about the pandemic can contribute to substance abuse.

The Effects of COVID on Mental Health

The pandemic and resulting economic uncertainty have impacted millions of people's mental health. Unfortunately, this includes an uptick in mental illness and substance use disorders.

Many adults have suffered from anxiety and stress due to the pandemic. This could be due to concerns about financial difficulties, stress about loved ones getting sick, and feelings of isolation during lockdowns.

Some of the signs that you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues during the pandemic include:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Difficulty eating
• Chronic conditions

If you are struggling with anxiety during the pandemic, there are several treatment options that can help.

Holistic Therapy

Besides providing clients with individual and group therapy for their addiction, San Antonio Recovery Center also offers a holistic therapy program. This program includes alternative ways to deal with anxiety and depression that are more productive than turning to drugs and alcohol.

Our holistic therapy programs include:

• Meditation therapy
• Nutritional therapy
• Yoga therapy
• Recreational therapy

Tips for Dealing with COVID-related Anxiety

Social distancing, wearing face masks, and staying home can protect you from exposure to the coronavirus. However, many people feel isolated and may worry about the long-term impacts of limited social interaction. Rather than turning to drugs or alcohol, consider habits that can sustain your physical and mental health instead of putting them at risk.

Follow these tips to stay calm and engaged during the pandemic and beyond:

• Exercise. When you exercise, the levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine in your body increase. These neurotransmitters can improve memory, concentration, and quality of sleep.
• Practice deep breathing. Through a series of deep breathing techniques, you can achieve deep relaxation. Here is a straightforward breathing exercise. Inhale deeply and count to seven. Hold your breath in for four seconds before slowly releasing it for a count of seven. You should notice a release of tension in your body and a reduction of anxiety.
• Take an online yoga class. Yoga offers both mental and physical stimulation that can promote relaxation and calmness. Through a series of positions and movements, you can tone your muscles and mind simultaneously.
• Eat healthy foods. To limit stress, avoid processed salty and sugary foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Replace these foods and beverages with nutritious foods such as leafy greens, turkey, avocados, whole grain pasta and bread, blueberries, almonds, and relaxing chamomile tea.
• Use aromatherapy. Essential oils used in aromatherapy Delete the senses and help you relax.

Anxiety Disorder Treatment

Despite your best efforts to tone down your anxiety during the pandemic, you may need professional help. Chronic stress can lead to self-medication with drugs and alcohol. If you have a co-occurring anxiety disorder and substance use disorder, come to San Antonio Recovery Center for help.

Our qualified team will design an addiction treatment program to address your anxiety and substance use disorder. If you are ready to learn better ways to cope with the difficulties of social isolation, begin the enrollment process today.

Mental Health and Addiction Treatment in Texas

If you need mental health assistance for anxiety and alcohol or drug addiction, we can help. Many of our other clients are also struggling with COVID-related restrictions. Find a loving, supportive environment to overcome your fear and anxiety without resorting to substance abuse. When you're ready, contact us at 866.957.7885, or contact us online to get started.