The COVID-19 pandemic has completely upturned millions of lives across the country. Small business owners have been scrambling to stay afloat, many working-class Americans have been let go or laid off and have spent countless hours on the phone with the unemployment office, and cases of mental illness are on the rise because of mandatory social isolation and an entirely new set of long-term stressors. Things have certainly not been easy. Unfortunately, many individuals who previously struggled with substance abuse and dependence are experiencing even more difficulties than they were previously. This is partial because 12-step support groups are no longer held in person, making it more difficult than ever before to maintain a sense of accountability.
More About Rising Substance Abuse During the Pandemic
People who had successfully accumulated long-term sobriety beforehand have been experiencing relapses, and people who never before struggled with substance abuse are turning to drugs and alcohol as a means of self-medication. Rates of substance abuse are rising, and as a result, rates of overdose-related death are also increasing dramatically. An article published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in December of 2020 suggested that overdose death rates have been accelerating at alarming rates because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
How COVID-19 is Related to Overdose In The US?
The report notes that in the 12 months ending in May 2020, more than 81,000 lives were lost at the hands of drug overdose death throughout the country. This is the highest number of overdose-related deaths ever recorded over one year. If you have reached for chemical substances in light of everything that has been going on in recent times, the good news is that there is help available. Because treatment centers are considered essential services, many of them have kept their doors open throughout the pandemic – including Evoke Wellness. 
Which Areas Are the Most Affected by COVID-19?
While the COVID-19 pandemic has fueled an increase in drug overdose deaths across the board, overdose deaths relating to synthetic opioids like fentanyl are the primary driver of the rapidly escalating nationwide issue. According to the CDC article, overdose deaths that included fentanyl increased 38.4 percent over these 12 months. Overdose deaths that directly involved cocaine and other illicit stimulants also increased. Cocaine overdose deaths increased by 26.5 percent, and methamphetamine overdose deaths increased by 34.8 percent.
United States Overdose and Deaths Due to COVID-19
Both the Western and Eastern United States have experienced an extreme increase in overdose deaths, but the Eastern United States has been especially affected. If you or someone you love is living on the east coast and has been struggling with substance abuse or dependence, we are available to help.
Evoke Wellness and Addiction Recovery
At Evoke Wellness, we understand how trying this time has been for everyone, especially men and women who have the propensity to abuse chemical substances. If you have previously maintained a long-term period of sobriety and recently experienced a relapse, or if you have turned to chemical substances to help you get through this unprecedented. Of the time, we are available to help. Our treatment center offers effective services to men and women throughout the northeast, and we effectively treat substance abuse and dependency in a comfortable, medically monitored, and state-of-the-art setting.
Our Drug Rehab is Open Durin the COVID-19 Pandemic
We keep up to date with the latest innovations in substance abuse treatment, and we always offer comprehensive and highly individualized care. We pay close attention to every one of our clients, and no matter what your specific needs or clinical requirements, we are available to help. To learn more about our treatment center or to begin your journey of physical, mental, and emotional healing. Pick up the phone, change your life and get help today.
