As authorities encourage social distancing to slow the spread of Coronavirus, some are particularly vulnerable to isolation. 

  People recovering from addiction often rely on regular meetings and social interaction to encourage accountability and maintain inspiration. But with an easy excuse to skip meetings, some may slide backwards. 

“Addiction is an illness of isolation and the antidote is community and in these times where we are being discouraged from congregating it can be particularly tricky to navigate,” said William Moyers, Vice President of Community Affairs for Hazelden Betty Ford. 

“It is important that people in recovery from addiction stay connected. Just because we have a pandemic doesn’t mean you can’t meet with a mentor or meet with another person in recovery. You may not be able to give them a hug or a handshake like you would normally would,” said

Moyers.  He suggests connecting on the phone with a mentor or on line using video meeting apps for support groups.