January 28, 2021

Rising Addiction During COVID-19: The Signs to Look For

Data strongly suggests that the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic – which have included great emotional and financial stress for many – has led to an increase in substance use and, along with that, an increase in relapsing as well as new addiction to both drugs and alcohol. Overdoses appear to be increasing as a result of the pandemic as well, though full data is not yet available. However, the existing data certainly paints a troubling picture:

• The Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program and (ODMAP), which provides near real-time data of overdoses across the nation, shows a 17.59% increase in suspected overdoses after stay-at-home orders are put in place.
• According to a study published December 3, 2020 in JAMA Psychiatry, there was an increase in overdose deaths of approximately 50% over 2019 levels as reported by the National Emergency Medical Services Information System (NEMSIS), a registry of more than 10,000 EMS agencies across 47 states.

And as if dealing with addiction isn’t difficult and scary enough as it is, data also shows that those with substance use disorders are actually more likely to become infected with COVID-19 and more likely to suffer negative outcomes when they do.

So, what can you do if you’re struggling with substance use or you suspect that a loved one is? Know the signs of addiction, and get professional help right away.

Some common signs of addiction to look for in yourself or a loved one include:

• Continuing to take a prescribed pain killer or other drug after it’s no longer needed for a health problem
• Greater and greater amounts of a substance are required to get the same effect
• Feeling unwell whenever the effects of the drug wear off – depressed, tired, nauseous, shaky, sweaty and/or suffering from headaches or a lack of appetite
• Inability to limit use of the substance, even when it causes negative effects on your life, and increased time spent thinking about the substance
• Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable and/or difficulty doing normal daily activities such as cooking, maintaining personal hygiene and working
• Hiding use of the substance from others
• Changes in relationships, such as trouble getting along with family, friends or coworkers, and/or suddenly spending time with a new set of friends who also use the substance

If you notice any of these signs, know that help is available, and the sooner you reach out for it, the better off you will be. Here are some resources for substance abuse treatment here in southern and central Massachusetts:

• Harrington Behavioral Health Addiction Immediate Care (AIC) Center
  The Addiction Immediate Care (AIC) center is the first treatment center of its kind in Massachusetts and nearby Connecticut. It provides immediate and continued access to a full range of treatments for any type of alcohol or substance use disorder, all in one place. Rapid assessment of alcohol and substance use disorder is available with or without an appointment, with medication-assisted therapy (MAT) typically beginning within 24 hours.
• Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: 800-327-5050
  The Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide help in finding substance use treatment, recovery, and problem gambling services, and to help you understand the treatment system and your options. Helpline services are free and confidential.
• The Massachusetts Department of Public Health Young Adult Resource Guide for Substance Abuse Resources

Also remember that you don’t have to wait until a substance use problem actually develops to get help.

You can be proactive in preventing a substance use disorder from developing in yourself or a loved one. If you are concerned that the stress of the pandemic or any other life events or circumstances may put you or a loved one at risk for addiction, there are resources that can help. See the Massachusetts Substance Use Prevention page for more information. You may also wish to seek out mental health services to help ease the stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges that can contribute to substance use.