Facing Fear of the Unknown During COVID

There are a lot of fears people new to recovery may have. COVID-19 has added even more worries for many of us. Many people have a fear of the future and “unknown,” but you can’t let these fears overwhelm you. Nothing lasts forever. While the world is changing, you’re still here and able to change your life as well. That’s a good thing! If you're in recovery, you are a resilient person who has managed to stay sober despite the fear and unrest in the world. (And if you're not in recovery, yet, there is an opportunity to get and stay sober right now!)

Support Can Help With Fear

As summer wears on, many people in America are growing restless. COVID-19 has made a dent in many peoples’ plans. Yet, you can still make plans and work toward your goals. It may be more difficult, but it’s worth it. And when you’re having a tough time, you can turn to your self-care regime to slow down and de-stress.

At the same time that there are many restrictions on what we do and where we go, many people feel lonely, anxious, or depressed. These are normal reactions to what is happening today! You can’t change what’s going on in the world right now. Staying focused may be hard, but it’s a way to aim for serenity and long-term sobriety.

Therapy, 12-step groups, a sponsor can help you stay sober in the short and long-term. Ask for help, and you shall recieve it@

Relapse is Not an Option

Staying sober is essential, and it’s also the safest option right now for yourself and your loved ones. News reports say that people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol are at risk for dangerous and deadly complications of the virus.

Addiction is more dangerous than ever – after all, many supplies of illicit drugs have dwindled, so drug dealers have spiked pills with deadly amounts of fentanyl and other contaminants. And almost anyone on the street who does drugs could have COVID-19 and make you sick.

Acting out on your addiction can only cause pain and heartache. While you may feel scared, lonely, or angry, that state is temporary. This, too, shall pass. Grab your phone and reach out to people in recovery if you’re having dark thoughts or feel like getting high.

Planning for the “Unknown” You Fear

You may have a lot of fear of the unknown. This is natural in recovery. There are, however, ways to cope with this.

For one thing, few fears we have are actually unknown. They may be “bad,” but not unknown. You may have trouble naming them. Maybe you are actually afraid of failure or loss. Perhaps you’re worried you’ll hurt others.

For example, you may be afraid of getting COVID and passing it onto your friends or loved ones. An excellent way to cope with this fear is to practice social distancing, carry hand sanitizer and use it often, and wear a mask whenever you leave the house. You can also make a plan with your family and friends for what you would do IF you somehow get sick.

Make a plan for who you could call for help, where you would get tested, and how you would isolate. It’s always good to keep enough food and water in the house for a few weeks in case of emergencies where you can’t leave.

Planning for some of your fears will help you feel safer and more “in control” of the results of your efforts. Asking for help is a great idea if you’re having trouble naming your fears or deciding what you would do if they came true.

Getting Help for Addiction

Great news! If you or a loved one needs help with addiction, there is a safe, discreet, therapeutic option available for recovery. We’re taking clients, and we’re here to help you plan your next steps. Give us a call at US (949) 279-1376 • MX (612) 153-5726 to learn more about our programs and how we can help.