Residential treatment centers specializing in substance abuse and behavioral disorders faced many tough challenges brought on by COVID-19. Like other healthcare facilities, rehab centers were forced to implement mandatory requirements that had the potential to impact residents and staff directly. Although the pandemic continues to rage, rehab centers have already provided some tips on successfully handling the pandemic conditions.
Personal Protective Equipment
The primary concern for treatment centers is the protection of staff, residents, and visitors. Treatment centers marked the floors and walls with decals to indicate six feet and bring awareness to the social distancing rule. In addition, rehab facilities provided protective gear to all staff and residents. This equipment included face masks, face shields, gloves, and hand sanitizer. Most centers required daily temperature checks and sent workers home or quarantined residents who registered a fever. Virtually every healthcare center routinely restricted visitors to the site.
Behavioral Health Modifications
Infection control procedures were the obvious priority for outpatient and residential rehab centers during the height of the pandemic. Unfortunately for the clients seeking or receiving treatment, these necessary requirements often create an uncomfortable atmosphere. The administration of treatment changed, in many cases quickly and without warning. Qualified professionals attempted to minimize the effects of all these changes. They edited treatment plans and discussed behavioral health coping tools with clients and residents struggling with changes to their routine. Many treatment centers found success in retaining socially distanced group therapy discussions.
Mental Health Support
Behavioral and mental health treatment sessions switched to virtual chats for many rehab centers in person. One of the unexpected side effects of COVID-19 was the surge in depression, suicidal thoughts, and other mental health disorders. These staggering statistics affected every segment of the population but were often even higher in populations of individuals seeking treatment. Successful rehab centers did not overlook the loneliness of this deadly virus. They continued to accept new patients and carefully screen all clients for signs of depression or aggression. Additional therapy sessions or free courses were implemented to provide extra support to all residents. Meditation and mindfulness exercises were especially helpful tools for many people who experienced a difficult time being away from loved ones.