Since the first international reports of the COVID-19 outbreak, most of us could not have foreseen the devastating impact on our country. We are all faced with major challenges, including a way forward to still assist those struggling with a substance abuse disorder.
Treating addiction has not changed. Our program still offers the same value and our treatment philosophies have not been compromised. Apart from the warm welcome, you would usually get when you're admitted, we assure you that we still make an effort to create a home away from home.
What PRC Recovery has been doing before the lockdown?
All groups have been moved to classroom 2 to allow for at least a 1.5m distance between desks.
Circle shares will also allow for distance.
The importance of hygiene was discussed especially coughing and sneezing into the elbow.
Clients will be excused from their activity to wash their hands every hour with soap and water. Unfortunately, hand sanitiser contains alcohol which is prohibited in the facility and only kept in the office area.
All surface areas (dining tables, desks and toilets) are sanitized 3 times a day.
Clients are urged to wipe the gym equipment after use but are also sanitized during the day.
Staff that are not living on the premises are advised to stay indoors as far as possible after hours and avoid stores as far as possible.
Sharing of water bottles and cigarettes is strictly prohibited.
All meetings outside the office have been cancelled.
All new admissions are tested and visitors screened after which safety protocol is followed.
Daily screenings of staff and clients.
What happens during the stricter lockdowns?
No visitors allowed (including staff).
Counselling staff will be remaining on the premises during the lockdown.
Only one staff member has received authorisation to travel for purchasing essential items (if needed) or emergencies.
The client will only be able to leave the premises in case of an emergency to seek medical attention.
Ongoing measures for hygiene and social distancing were implemented.
Measurements going forward?
All new admissions will have to be tested for COVID-19.
Clients will be in an isolation area for a period of 7-days while screened daily.
Rapid Antigen Test will be done on day 7 if no symptoms are recorded.
If a client shows more than 2 symptoms, he/she is immediately isolated and testing will be arranged.
The isolation area will not be shared with new admissions or anyone showing symptoms.
How do we help our clients during isolation?
The client is already facing major emotional turmoil from withdrawal and isolation increases anxiety. We have set up our isolation period so that the client can still continue with sessions, online meetings, morning JFT meetings, etc.
All clients and staff are urged to keep the necessary protocol during their stay, regardless of off-time. Everyone's safety is our number one concern.
Conclusion
How to cope with anxiety during Covid-19?
If you’re struggling with anxiety during the Covid-19 pandemic, you’re not alone. Many people are finding it hard to cope with the uncertainty and changes to their daily routine. Here are some tips to help you manage your anxiety during this challenging time.
First, try to stick to a routine as much as possible. Wake up at the same time each day, eat regular meals, and get enough sleep. Exercise can also help to reduce anxiety levels.
Second, stay connected to your friends and family, even if you can’t see them in person. Use technology to stay in touch, whether that’s through video calls, social media, or text messages.
Third, limit your news consumption. Constant exposure to news reports about the pandemic can make anxiety worse. Choose a few trusted sources of information and check them once or twice a day.
Finally, give yourself some time to relax and unwind.
How to deal with anxiety during isolation
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