Long before we encountered COVID-19, BC was already in the middle of an opioid epidemic. COVID-19 has made things worse. Here are several reasons which could explain the climbing addiction-related death toll.

One of the biggest problems is that a pandemic such as COVID-19 requires social distancing. And social support is one of the main things that helps those with addictions. This social distancing has increasingly isolated a population that needs social support the most. This social distancing has also limited the care and treatment available to addicts. Many addicts are isolating and returning to bad habits to cope with increasing isolation.

The pandemic has also caused problems with the availability of drug supply itself, which has made addicts experiment with other street drugs to find a "high". Some dealers are mixing all kinds of unhealthy or toxic materials into their drug supplies to make them last.

There has also been a disruption to normal rehabilitation options. Residential Treatment may not currently be an option or may be considered too dangerous. Therapy at a distance by video conferencing may not be the best way to treat addictions, and some of those patients may not have access to the hardware and software needed to have these meetings.

The pandemic has been particularly painful for addicts needing and seeking treatment. But there is still treatment available.

Hopefully, we’ve been able to provide some guidance for you on the current state of addiction in BC.

Kuldip Counselling and Consulting has two convenient locations in Surrey and Langley. They offer counselling services and compassionate therapy in the areas of addictions counselling, and family and marriage counselling.

If you have any questions about this article or would like to schedule an appointment, please call (604) 764-9575.

Sources

• https://www.kuldipcounselling.com/drug-alcohol-addiction