The COVID-19 crisis has changed the lives of nearly everyone on the planet. While some people have managed to adapt quite well to new restrictive measures, drug users and alcoholics find themselves facing extra risks.
COVID-19 impacts drug supply and social distancing measures mean that some dealers have stopped supplying their customers. This means that some drug users simply aren’t able to access the drugs that they need to stay out of withdrawal – and with many San Diego drug rehab facilities putting in new measures because of social distancing, it can be hard to find treatment.
This article will talk about how drug users and alcoholics can prepare for the unfortunate possibility of withdrawal.
Mentally Preparing Yourself
The first thing to do is mentally prepare yourself for the possibility of getting stuck without your fix. When you’re prepared, you will be less likely to be caught by surprise.
- Make sure that you remain in contact with people who are within your circle. Let them know your situation so that they will also be prepared to help you if they need to.
- Consider tapering as much as you can. That means decreasing your doses over time so you become less dependent on the drug. If you do this, then you will experience less intense withdrawals.
- If you’re living alone, try to find someone who can come watch over you while you’re in withdrawal. Some drugs, including alcohol, can cause seizures during their withdrawal period. If you experience a serious seizure and there is nobody around to call the hospital, it could be fatal.
Don’t hope for withdrawal, but don’t ignore the possibility. Being aware and prepared is the key to being as comfortable as possible during withdrawal.
Physically Preparing Yourself
If there is a possibility that you are going to go through withdrawal, then you want to make sure that you’re prepared. Making sure that you have the proper equipment can mean the difference between an uncomfortable withdrawal and a terrible one.
- First off, you want to make sure that you have enough food to last you for the duration of your withdrawal. If you’re going to be really sick, you won’t be able to go out and get groceries.
- Get any vitamins and over-the-counter medicines that may help. Antiemetic, antidiarrheal, and sleep aids can all be useful.
- Make sure that your space is comfortable.
- Stock up on things like baby wipes and toilet paper if you’re going to be detoxing.
Conclusion
Withdrawal is never fun, but given the current situation in the world, it may be a bit more dangerous right now. Nonetheless, if you make sure that you’re prepared, you should be able to survive withdrawal with a minimum of discomfort.
In normal times, San Diego drug and alcohol rehab can help you stay sober – but these days it’s important to take extra precautions.
Written by Nigel Ford
