1/This article highlights a surge in #overdose deaths during our #COVID19 pandemic, despite flexibilities specifically in prescribing for OUD - we need to consider that med treatment is only part of the story ... quotes @KeithNHumphreys @brycepardo
2/Anecdotally, I am seeing a rise of deaths from people who previously reduced substance use in part because of social support and who are now increasing use & dying due to use in isolation. This includes alcohol-related deaths as the predominant form, not captured in CDC data
4/The role of face to face social contact (from trusted non-using friends) in helping people calibrate behavior is - I believe- MASSIVE. For people already living the Zoom life, it might well help.
5/But lots of my patients are not accustomed to an online life, lack the technology and it is a nurse or a coach or even me- in front of them- saying “tell me what you are up to” that helps them calibrate
6/Addiction recovery mutual support resources at a distance do exist, both via phone and computer. This list (derived from Dr Stephen Martin) is one where I checked all links and added explanation link.medium.com/wRfxknSly7
7/PLEASE -for anyone in a position to be present for someone working through drinking or drug problems, just ASK (“tell me how you are” “tell me how you are with alcohol”) AFFIRM (“you know we care about you and how hard you work”) OFFER (“need help finding someone to talk to?”)
