The COVID-19 pandemic rages on in the United States and abroad, as do stay at home orders in many states. Some 33.5 million Americans have been laid off or furloughed from work. The number of coronavirus cases (1,250,421) in the U.S. climbs higher each day, and so does the death toll (75,250). Naturally, the addiction and mental health community continue to struggle with isolation.Last month, we discussed anxiety, depression, and isolation; it's exceptionally challenging to manage symptoms of mental illness in the current environment. You have to work especially hard not to be overcome by feelings of despair and loneliness. People in recovery can't afford entertaining negative thoughts and must be vigilant about warding them off.Whether you have been home with a loved one for several months or by yourself, one must always remind him or herself that they are not alone. You have support, even if it is only available over the phone or the internet.Men and women in recovery from alcohol, substance, mental health, or co-occurring disorders must band together and support one another. We are stronger together, despite the fact that we are physically separated.Our post last month is a nice segue into this week's topic: Mental Health Awareness Month.
Hundreds of millions of Americans feel cut off from their friends, family, and support networks. However, we can utilize social media and other internet tools to connect. It's vital now more than ever to make digital connections, particularly for individuals living with the reality of mental illness and addiction every day.A staggering number of Americans are living with a mental illness, anything from depression to post-traumatic stress disorder. One in five or nearly 50 million adults in the United States experience a mental health disorder in a given year. One in 25 adults faces a severe mental illness each year.Of the 47.6 million adults living with mental illness, a significant portion also has an alcohol or substance use disorder. Conversely, more than half of people living addiction have a co-occurring mental illness.The theme of Mental Health Awareness Month 2020 is "You Are Not Alone." It doesn't matter if you are in recovery or not; support is available if you need it. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) writes that the:
"You are Not Alone" campaign features the lived experience of people affected by mental illness to fight stigma, inspire others and educate the broader public. Now more than ever before, it is important for the mental health community to come together and show the world that no one should ever feel alone. The campaign builds connection and increases awareness with the digital tools that make connection possible during a climate of physical distancing. Even in times of uncertainty, the NAMI community is always here, reminding everyone that you are not alone.
What's more, people in recovery can encourage others to follow suit; NAMI invites individuals to share their stories with the world. You can also share graphics on social media to help shatter the stigma of mental illness.
Please reach out to NorthStar Transitions if addiction or a co-occurring mental health disorder is impacting your life or your loved one's life. Our team of highly trained professionals relies on evidence-based therapies to help our clients achieve lasting recovery,Please be advised that our treatment center is strictly following COVID-19 guidelines; click here to learn more.
