Isolation can be a challenge

NORWALK — Isolating is a challenge for many of us and can often be an even greater challenges for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. Support groups and frequent contact with others in one's support system are, for many, a large part of recovery. These activities become challenging with social distancing and the stay-at-home order. Below are tips and resources to assist individuals in recovery during this time: • Stay connected with members of your support system by finding new or creative ways to connect with members such as scheduled phone calls and video chats. • Develop new ways to do activities "together" with members of your support system such as working on a project together via video chat, starting an online book club and holding online meetings, having dinner "together" via video chat, etc. • Create a daily schedule to reduce downtime and boredom. • Work on projects that have been on the to-do list for a while. • Develop a new healthy hobby such as gardening, crocheting, or painting. • Build and implement a self-care plan. • Focus on the basics — eat nutritious food, exercise, get adequate sleep, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and drugs, and make time to relax and unwind. • Identify and plan to attend online meetings. Contact local Peer Recovery organizations for information regarding available recovery meetings (Let's Get Real 440-963-7042, Sandusky Artisans 419-621-9377). The following sites also offer information regarding online meetings: • intherooms.com/home. • ncoaai.com. • virtual-na.org. If you are struggling and need support, call the Huron County Support Line at (567) 743-7155. The support line is staffed by behavioral health professionals from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. 7 days per week. You can also text 4HOPE to 741 741. If you are experiencing a mental health related crisis, please contact the Huron County Crisis Hotline at 800-826-1306 which is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. If you are in need of counseling or other behavioral health services, please contact: Family Life Counseling 567-560-3584, Firelands Counseling 419-663-3737 or Rigel Recovery Services 567-280-4023. Services are now available online and over the phone.