With various lockdowns and social distancing, individuals are met with greater temptation to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms in attempt to combat feelings of anxiety, depression, seclusion and isolation. If you are dealing with a substance use disorder or mental health issue, you may find your situation compounded among the struggles of dealing with a global pandemic. What We Know COVID cases continue to rise, more than:

• 2 million in Texas
• 25 million across the US
• 100 million worldwide

This virus can be fatal. The trauma of losing loved ones, even concern for the possibility of losing someone can be a lot to handle alone. Mental health and resiliency fatigue are real issues we are facing, ever-present during a time that there are orders to stay in and keep distance from others. Social distancing can lead to feelings of isolation and force individuals to find ways to manage. You Are Not Alone Here at Santé in 2020, we necessitated a waiting list for five months and experienced a 6% increase in calls for help and a 4% increase in admissions compared to the previous year. Just as COVID cases have climbed, admissions to mental and behavioral health treatment centers have followed. These unsettling feelings are not uncommon and the numbers prove that many are experiencing a negative impact from the pandemic. Helpful Resources During times like this, it’s important to know what resources are available and safe to use. You may need to limit or completely avoid face-to-face contact, but there are online services that can help. Currently at Santé:

• IOP via HIPPA compliant virtual platform
• Counseling sessions via HIPPA compliant virtual platform
• Online alumni support groups

If you are in Texas and in need of more immediate help, do not hesitate to call Santé Center for Healing’s direct line at 940-464-7222.   Article by Heather Willis Graphics & Reformatting for blog: Julie K. Ballard Related content: https://www.santecenter.com/sante-center-alumni/meetings/ https://www.santecenter.com/rehab-blog/staying-sober-after-detox/ https://www.santecenter.com/rehab-blog/managing-addiction-during-a-pandemic/