Addiction Support Service during COVID-19
Sydney’s Jewish House has launched a support service connecting people with addictive behaviours (of alcohol, drugs and gambling) to its team which can give them the tools to assist in addiction support and preventing relapse.
This service will provide immediate telephone counselling support, pathways to online addiction recovery meetings and resources to help people through these uncertain times and keep individuals on the path of wellness and recovery.
CEO of Jewish House, Rabbi Mendel Kastel said: “We are seeing a spike in alcohol consumption, mental health issues, and family conflict as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Jewish House has launched this Addiction Support Service to help people with addictive behaviours through these times. A national YouGov Galaxy poll conducted at the beginning of April reported that one-fifth of Australians had purchased more alcohol since the coronavirus lockdown began and are drinking more in home isolation.
Twenty per cent of the 1,035 respondents were purchasing more alcohol, 70 per cent of them were drinking more than usual, and a third of them were now drinking daily. These are frightening figures, and we urge people in our community to reach out to Jewish House for support if they feel themselves or a loved one slipping into these behaviours. Right now, our mental health is just as important as our physical health.
We understand that for many people recovering from substance abuse and gambling addictions – the boredom and anxiety felt by physical isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, can lead to serious relapse issues. We are facing an extraordinary time – with many of us feeling unsettled and uncertain as we stay in our homes. It is more important than people recovering from addictions to remain socially and emotionally connected with family, friends, and communities. “
The service can be accessed by people recovering from addictions, people acknowledging new addictive behaviours, and family members of people with addictive behaviours. Jewish House has a team of peer support volunteers who will make themselves available to provide guidance support and mentoring to those who would like to engage in a recovery process.
To connect with the Jewish House Addiction Support Service, visit the below:
- Website: JH COVID-19 Crisis Portal https://www.jewishhouse.org.au/covid19/
- Phone: 1300 544 357
- Email: addiction@jewishhouse.org.au
