The national coronavirus epidemic and the global pandemic have taken a significant toll on those who live with mental illness. Stressful situations impact mental health disorders of any kind, and the same is true for people with behavioral health disorders involving drugs and alcohol.
The new normal has led to an uptick in calls to national mental health crisis hotlines. Millions of Americans are doing their best to cope with social isolation, stress, and fear, while also attempting to keep their mental health stable–. It’s not easy to manage depression and anxiety when you are feeling alone and are fearful that a deadly virus can steal your life.
Members of the addiction recovery community – many of whom contend with co-occurring mental illnesses – are having to adapt to a new way of life. None of us have ever had to confront a public health crisis of this magnitude.
Given the ever-rising death toll and number of confirmed cases, sheltering in place will likely continue through the summer. Each state is handling the matter in their own way, so it’s hard to say when you will be able to return to 12 Step recovery meetings and meet with your therapist in person.
Johns Hopkins University reports that there are 1,094,640 confirmed cases in the United States. The American coronavirus death toll has surpassed that of the Vietnam War (58,220); 64,177 people have succumbed to the virus. As such, you have every right to harbor fears regarding COVID-19.
Those who are living with behavioral and mental health disorders must stay connected with their support networks. Protecting one’s recovery and mental well-being is of the utmost priority.
Mental Health Awareness Month
Every May, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and other organizations observe Mental Health Awareness Month. The observance has many goals, which include: fighting stigma, providing support, educating the public, and advocating for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
Men and women with mental illness are one of the most vulnerable demographics during this pandemic. Such people require support now more than ever before. Please keep in mind that one in five Americans is living with a mental health disorder. 47.6 million adults battle the symptoms of mental illness each day. Many of those millions of people feel cut off and alone right now. However, NAMI would like to remind such individuals that “You Are Not Alone.”
NAMI has launched the “You Are Not Alone” campaign to remind those who struggle with mental illness that resources are available even during a public health crisis. Treatment centers are still operating because they are essential to combating the mental health disorder epidemic in America. The organization reminds us of the importance of staying connected during these troubled times. NAMI writes:
“NAMI’s “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.”
You are invited to share graphics on social media to help raise awareness about mental illness. You can also share your story and help other people feel connected while in isolation. We can all have a hand in breaking the stigma of mental health disorders and addiction.
Addiction and Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment
Hemet Valley Recovery Center is a Chemical Dependency Rehabilitation Hospital (CDRH) for adults and young adults. We also specialize in treating men and women with a dual diagnosis for conditions like depression, bipolar, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Please contact our admissions team to learn more about the HVRC difference and take the first step toward a life in recovery.