The isolation required as part of the state’s efforts to slow the spread of the new coronavirus is a challenge for many of us, but particularly difficult for people dealing with addiction, those in recovery, and for the providers who are treating these populations.
One of the established principles of getting people with substance use disorder into treatment – and keeping them healthy – is founded on connection and communication.
“Call, use the phone, ask for help. Say ‘I don’t know, can you help me?’” says Katherine, who asked that her last name not be used. Katherine is herself in recovery, and works as a peer-to-peer counselor at the Portland Recovery Community Center.