Our world is currently going through an unprecedented difficult time. With parents working from home, kids out of school, and the need for social distancing, our mental health, and underlying substance use disorders can be triggered now more than ever. Anxiety, fear of the unknown, depression, isolation, stress, financial difficulties, and boredom can trigger you, your son or daughter, or a loved one to slip into a relapse or acquire a new addiction disorder. Even if our world is currently at a standstill, mental health and substance use disorder treatment is not.
Hospitals, emergency rooms, therapist’s offices, and mental health and addiction services are still open, and professionals are working around the clock to keep everyone physically and mentally healthy. Seeking treatment for your son or daughter’s mental illness or substance abuse should not be placed on the backburner, especially during these trying times. Neglecting a mental health or substance use disorder can potentially lead to worsening outcomes such as a decline in physical health, self-harm behaviors, suicide, the development of a co-occurring disorder, or even trouble with the law.
When should your son or daughter seek treatment?
The sooner we can help ourselves or our loved ones seek professional addiction treatment, the better! The following are common signs and symptoms associated with a mental illness or substance use disorder:
Unexplained, confusing change in personality or attitude
Sudden mood changes, irritability, and angry outbursts
Periods of unusual hyperactivity or agitation
Lack of motivation; inability to focus, appears lethargic, or “spaced out.”
Appears fearful, withdrawn, anxious, or paranoid
Benefits of seeking treatment at this time
Schools are closed which means your son or daughter will not have to worry about missing class while in treatment
Many parents are working from home which means parents can be there for their son or daughter and reach out for help
Many restaurants and bars are closed, which can decrease the urge to “use” after completing treatment. In other words, there are fewer social vices available, which can have a positive impact on recovery
AKUA Mind & Body cares for your health
Treatment centers such as AKUA Mind & Body are closely monitoring the CDC guidelines and are continuing to do everything they can to keep their clients and employees safe. These measures include the following:
Additional screening tools upon admission
Increased number of hand-washing stations and sinks at each facility
Encouraging proper hand-washing techniques
Extra precaution when sanitizing surfaces and common areas
AKUA Mind & Body is a full-service treatment program that offers a wide range of “east meets west” treatment modalities for clients struggling with a mental illness of substance use disorders. We also treat co-occurring disorders and work diligently with each client and their family to ensure that treatment is specifically tailored to their needs. AKUA Mind & Body offers detoxification, intensive residential treatment programs, and outpatient treatment programs all in safe and healthy facility.
