Staying Sober in Stressful Times: Expert Tips for Recovery During Quarantine
We're doing a lot of helping people to try and cognitively reframe things, to utilize skills to promote healthy coping with these stresses and worries that are on their minds. Skills such as mindfulness, such as meditation, making sure that they're doing the things that they need to take care of themselves. - Dr. Eric Barker
When stress and fear are at an all-time high, staying sober can feel like an uphill battle. In this episode of 'Healthy Mind Matters', host Maria Shilaos sits down with Dr. Eric Barker and Counselor Charlotte Prather from Intermountain Dayspring Clinic in Logan to discuss the unique challenges faced by those in recovery during the coronavirus pandemic. With quarantine disrupting daily routines and amplifying anxiety, it's more important than ever to find healthy coping mechanisms. Dr.
Barker emphasizes that help is still available, and now might actually be the best time to seek support. He shares practical advice on using cognitive reframing, mindfulness, and meditation to maintain mental wellness. These tools can help reframe negative thoughts and keep stress in check. Counselor Prather adds that staying present through mindfulness can improve memory, focus, and mental clarity, which are crucial for anyone navigating recovery.
Both experts highlight the importance of self-care and developing healthy habits tailored to individual needs. Whether it's through exercise, creative outlets, or simply taking time for oneself, these practices can make a significant difference in managing stress and avoiding relapse. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction during these challenging times, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Remember, support is always within reach, and it's never too late to start your journey towards a healthier mind.