The rising concerns over COVID-19 have all of us wondering what is safe and what isn’t. Social distancing is an unprecedented precaution taking place in our nation today. We’re told to avoid crowds and stay home if possible. These guidelines challenge our sense of togetherness and normalcy. Many of us will miss dining out with friends, attending sports events, concerts, gyms, bars, and the zillion other crowded venues we love. We also wonder about the safety of necessary gatherings such as doctor visits, shopping for groceries, work, and so many other activities we normally engage in on a daily basis. With these concerns and safety recommendations in mind, should addicts avoid rehab during the virus?
Rehab Facilities May be Safer Than Your Current Situation
If you are struggling with substance abuse problems, you may be facing a tough decision about whether it’s safe to enter rehab at this time. Many facilities are at capacity with hundreds of patients. Since we’re advised to avoid crowds, should addicts avoid rehab during the virus? In most cases, the answer is no. In fact, the secure environment of a rehab facility could offer a measure of protection that you won’t get in your current situation.
Professional addiction treatment providers are taking the virus threat seriously. Their top priority is the safety and health of patients at all times. Across America, these dedicated individuals are working diligently to implement stringent safety precautions at all locations.
These specific protocols are in place to not only protect patients and staff but also to ensure those who are concerned about entering rehab during the pandemic:
- Before admission, screen all new patients for Coronavirus.
- Thoroughly sanitize and clean the facility on a regular basis.
- Staff who show symptoms of the virus are required to remain home.
- Continuous monitoring of patients for signs of COVID-19 symptoms.
- Limit close contact between patients and staff.
- Provide readily available cleaning supplies and hand sanitizer.
As you can see, rehab may be your safest option at this time. The important thing is that you get the help you need for overcoming addiction. The dangers of continued substance abuse can be deadly if left untreated.
Why It’s Still Important to Seek Rehab During Coronavirus
- Isolation fuels addiction: Active substance abusers often avoid contact with others, and this isolation can exacerbate the addiction. A rehab facility that focuses on your health and safety is the ideal place to be.
- Detoxing without help is dangerous: If you’re thinking about taking matters into your own hands to avoid a crowded facility, don’t. Detoxing without medical supervision poses a significant risk to your health and safety.
- Your chance of contracting the virus could be greater outside rehab: As a substance abuser, your immune system is weak and this puts you at a high risk of infection. Plus, you may be exposing yourself to individuals who are not concerned with hygiene or safety. However, in rehab, you are under the supervision of skilled medical professionals who care about your well-being.
When choosing a facility, make sure that it is following federal and state guidelines to reduce the risk of COVID-19. Also, ask if they are conducting Coronavirus testing as indicated by the CDC. You also want to know if in-person family visits can be held by virtual or phone platforms.
Should Addicts Avoid Rehab During the Virus? Ask New Beginnings
We hope this information about should addicts avoid rehab during the virus, addressed some of your concerns. At New Beginnings, we are dedicated to our patients’ safety and health at all times. Let us help you get the treatment you need during this unsettling situation in our country.
- cdc.gov – Preparing for COVID-19: Long-term Care Facilities, Nursing Homes
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