COVID-19 Update
Health Care Resource Centers continues to serve patients in accordance with CDC, Federal and State Guidelines, putting the health and…
Where change begins.
As the cold days of winter draw near, this season presents a real danger to those struggling with opioid addiction. Why does opioid addiction tend to get worse in the cold winter months? Is there anything you can do to maintain your sobriety? Before the chills sets in, make sure you are forewarned and forearmed.
When the days are shorter and the weather is colder, there tends to be a dramatic spike in opioid overdoses. Winter is one of the hardest times to survive or hide an opioid addiction. While each person who struggles with addiction has a unique set of circumstances, here are some of the factors that make the cold weather of winter difficult for people with an opioid use disorder:
If the cold weather is threatening your sobriety, it’s time to take action. Here are some steps to help safeguard your recovery from opioid addiction during the winter.
When the winter blues kick in, you may be tempted to seek out substances that used to help you feel better. Now that you’re sober, you need some go-to activities that you know will improve your mood and keep those cravings at bay. Some common winter activities include:
Many people slip into unhealthy patterns during the winter, such as inactivity, eating junk food and sleeping longer than usual. Choose to stay on track with your healthy habits by:
Don’t allow the isolation of winter to put your sobriety at risk. If you find yourself thinking about using, reach out to your support network. Tell them about your struggles, or engage in some lighthearted conversation to boost your mood.
Whether you’re in recovery or still grappling with opioid addiction, you don’t have to face this winter alone. Health Care Resource Centers offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT) along with compassionate counseling to support and encourage your recovery journey through every season of life. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.