The time in which we’re currently living is both challenging and even frightening. Uncertainty surrounds us all, both here in the United States, and throughout the entire world. People from all walks of life are facing the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. But, as the world struggles to return to a state of normalcy, questions continue to linger. These questions are also plaguing the minds of those who are in recovery from addiction.
As recovering individuals were prohibited from gathering in group meetings due to safety concerns, many people who are working to overcome addiction have been left wondering what to do. Accountability and togetherness are both necessary components of the recovery process.
So, how can individuals continue to receive addiction help throughout this time? Well, social media platforms have teamed up with Google to make online addiction help both possible and accessible to those who need it. According to a recent report, recovering individuals may be able to find addiction help online, a welcome and needed resource at this time.
Facebook, Twitter, and Google: Bringing Hope and Help
Social media often gets a bad reputation. Many people find themselves struggling to maintain a healthy self-image due to the pressures that come with keeping up with the social media Joneses. But, what if Google and social media joined forces to provide people with hope? What if there was a way for people who struggle with addiction to gain access to addiction help through these platforms?
Apparently, the individuals behind Twitter, Facebook, and Google have thought through these questions. Recently, these platforms shared the news that they partnered with the nonprofit Center for Safe Internet Pharmacies. In doing so, they have launched Tech Together, an online platform that works to help those suffering from substance dependence.
About Tech Together’s Approach to Online Addiction Help
The Tech Together site launched by Facebook, Twitter, and Google threesome is meant to create a safe space for those who are struggling with addiction or dealing with the stigma of getting treatment for substance use disorders. The website (TechTogether.co) is a resource where individuals can find the help they need as they work through addiction.
This resource might prove to be very helpful, especially throughout the COVID-19 pandemic our world is currently experiencing. Since the coronavirus has halted addiction recovery group meetings for now, more and more people are taking to telehealth and telemedicine approaches to get help.
As previously mentioned, accountability is a critical part of the journey to recovery. Those who are attempting to remain free from addiction need a support system, complete with like-minded peers and compassionate professionals. But, as the world continues to take safety measures by carrying out social distancing precautions, recovery meetings and support groups are unable to meet. This makes accountability and support systems less and less accessible.
Thankfully, however, more individuals, communities, and corporations are finding ways to provide addiction help online for those who need these services.
Tech Together offers people in recovery a platform where they can find resources as they move toward a life without substance dependence. These resources include tools that can help people find treatment services near them. Also, individuals can help family members of struggling individuals to find helpful resources. So, the spouses, children, and parents of those suffering from substance use disorders may be able to benefit from Tech Together, as well.
What Does This Mean For People in Recovery?
With the COVID-19 virus running rampantly throughout the world, many people are facing intense feelings of fear and uncertainty. Emotions are running high and countless families are trying to navigate through this new normal. While everyone is truly hoping that this current normalcy is only temporary, there is no real way to be sure.
Those who are trying to terminate addiction’s grip on their lives and begin a new and healthier life are likely to feel a different kind of uncertainty than others. It can be difficult to take the first step toward recovery in a regular world. So, attempting to do so in a world that is plagued by chaos and “the unknown” can be even more challenging.
This is why support and resources are so important for those in recovery. Perhaps, one might even say that these components of recovery are even more essential now than before the coronavirus pandemic struck the globe.
Finding hope and help is absolutely necessary while in recovery. Having access to resources like those provided by Tech Together may prove to be a critical part of the recovery process, both now and in the future.
While local and federal government officials sort through the sea of unresolved issues regarding the virus, individuals around the world are simply trying to make it through another day in recovery. Fortunately, Google, Twitter, and Facebook have recognized this truth. By working together, these platforms in combination with the Center for Safe Internet Pharmacies have provided people with effective and useful solutions and tools.
Finding the Best Resources for Your Needs
No doubt, if you or someone you know needs addiction help, you are wondering if online addiction resources are really enough. This question is one that probes at the minds of many individuals seeking to recover from alcoholism or drug misuse. The truth of the matter is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction treatment.
It is certainly true online resources can be both convenient and effective. It’s also true that this approach can help those who are unable to attend group meetings or find treatment services and facilities near them. But, these tools and resources are only helpful in cases where people are truly willing to end addiction in their lives.
Many people who suffer from substance use disorder may not recognize the severity of their struggle. Others may simply be unsure how or if they should even go about finding help for substance use disorders. But, by learning more about substance misuse and the available resources, individuals may become more comfortable with seeking addiction help.
If you are currently dealing with drug use or alcohol use and you’re not sure where to start, know that we are here for you! At Discovery Institute, we are dedicated to providing individuals with the tools they need to recover from addiction. Our staff is working to create a safe and secure environment, taking great care to follow the best coronavirus prevention precautions. So, please reach out to us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you find true freedom. We look forward to walking with you on this journey!
Dr. Joseph Ranieri D.O. earned his BS in Pharmacy at Temple University School of Pharmacy in 1981 and His Doctorate Degree in Osteopathic Medicine at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1991. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a Diplomate of the American Board of Preventive Medicine Addiction Certification. Dr. Ranieri has lectured extensively to physicians, nurses, counselors and laypeople about the Disease of Addiction throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania since 2012.
