Recovery could be at risk

By Patricia Nugent

For those with substance use disorders, research is already indicating concerning rises in the number of relapses and overdoses during the pandemic.

“When someone is already struggling with cravings and triggers to use, anxiety, depression and uncertainty only amplify that,” says Lisa M. Borchert, M.A. Ed., LPCC, who 20 years ago founded Avenues of Counseling and Mediation, a private practice of 40 clinicians.

She offers these tips to avoid relapse for those who may be struggling:

• Take care of your body with regular exercise, a healthy diet and plenty of sleep
• Stick to a daily routine
• Avoid people and places that have been triggers to use in the past
• Develop a relapse prevention plan with substance abuse professionals

For those who are loved ones of someone in recovery, she suggests watching for tell-tale signs they may be using, from declining hygiene to lying about what they are doing.

“It’s important to treat that person with empathy and support, lend a non-judgmental ear, and encourage them to seek professional help,” she says.

In addition to in-office visits, Avenues of Counseling also offers telehealth visits.

Patients tap into a HIPAA-compliant video conferencing system accessible on any camera-enabled computer screen, phone or tablet.

Teletherapy sessions are covered by insurances and Employee Assistance Programs and currently copays have been waived by most insurances.

Avenues of Counseling and Mediation has two locations, at 843 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Ghent Square in Bath Twp., and 230 S. Court Street in Medina. Call 330-723-7977 or visit AvenuesOfCounseling.com for more information or to make an appointment. Visit AvenuesOfCounseling.com/mimi-partner, enter your e-mail address, and get a free In-Depth Guide for Managing Stress.