Overdose Deaths Hit Record High During Pandemic

Covid-19 has affected everyone and with the continuing lingering protocols the virus brings,
many people are feeling exhausted, tired, and sad. With shutdowns and restrictions still being
in place, many see it as never-ending. This can cause some to go into a depressed state of mind.
Combining a pandemic with a growing addiction/substance use problem leaves many communities
with their hands full.

Check out this article from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that goes in-depth about the drug overdose rates during the Covid-19 pandemic. Our Executive Director, Dr. Selahattin Kurter, shares his input on this growing issue talking about why this is happening and ways to combat it. Dr. Kurter states in the article, “It’s the perfect storm. We’re seeing isolation, loneliness, and depression. Combine that with an underlying substance abuse problem, and now you have all the right combinations for an overdose.”

West Grove Clinic continues to stay open and offer both in-person and virtual appointments. It is important to realize addiction and mental health is a growing problem in all of our communities. So, we must work together to help raise awareness to best serve those in our communities who need help.

Avoid Holiday Addiction Relapses

The holidays can be an exciting and joyous time of year. The holidays can also be extremely stressful. For people in recovery from substance use disorders, it can be particularly challenging. With all of the parties, gatherings, and additional commitments; the risk of relapsing over the holiday season is significant. Check out this article for 10 ways to avoid relapse over the holidays.

Check out the 10 ways here...

Meredith Robbins, SAC-IT

What to Do When Triggered During the Holidays

Some people enjoy the holidays while others experience the holidays as a time of stress, anxiety, emotional triggers, and pain. With the added pressure from the COVID-19 pandemic, some families are not gathering. Use this time for self-care like the gift of only doing what feels right for you. Protect yourself from outside/internal expectations from the holidays. Try to be aware of what will trigger you – if finances have been tough this year then don’t feel pressure to overdo it on gifts. Be compassionate and patient with yourself, feelings are only temporary and they will pass and most importantly you deserve to be happy (not just for the holidays) but in life too! Please reach out if you need professional help and if you are experiencing any intense emotions or struggling with suicidal thoughts please contact the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741741 in the US for the Crisis Text Line.

Cohen, I. S. (2020, December 16): Click Here To Read More...

Corbin Magee, Intern

7 Ways To Thank Your Therapist/Physician

It is common for people to want to show appreciation for the people in their lives including the professionals they interact with for support. Therapists and Physicians have a specific code of ethics that must be followed. This makes balancing the line of gift giving and what is acceptable challenging for both the provider and the client involved. Here are 7 ideas of ways to thank your provider while respecting the client-provider relationship boundaries.

 Click here to see the ways…

Travis Brown, CSAC, Intern

Maintain Recovery During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family, good food, traditions, and more. But for individuals in recovery, it can be a time of high-risk for relapse and stress. The high emotions and activities can be harmful if you are not careful. These six tips can help you feel prepared and safe during this time.

1. Start preparing for the holidays in advance.

2. Have someone who is sober be with you during this time.

3. Go to a meeting.

4. Plan for activities outside of the festivities.

5. Set up a therapy session.

6. Develop an escape plan.

Click here to read more about maintaining recovery during the holidays…

Maggie Garvey, Intern