The stress and anxiety around COVID-19 can exacerbate problem drinking and/or drug addiction. April is Alcohol Awareness Month, and if substance abuse is effecting your life, we want you to know that you’re not alone.
If you or someone close to you is struggling with substance abuse or dependency, we encourage you to reach out to the Peer Volunteer Program (developed through a partnership between IBEW 1245, ESC-IFPTE 20 and PG&E), which is still operational during COVID-19. The Peer Volunteers have been there, they understand what you’re going through, and they want to help. Find a peer volunteer near you at http://www.peervolunteers.org/contact-a-peer.html. For information about the role of the volunteers or advice on how peers can help, contact Brent Turner at (415) 602-0941.
Additionally, for individuals needing more support, or for those outside of PG&E, the following resources are available virtually:
• In the Rooms (a global recovery community)
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) online meeting directory or download the Meeting Guide app
• LifeRing secular recovery online meetings
• Al-Anon electronic meetings
• Virtual care through Hazelden Betty Ford. Contact 855-348-7018 or Hope@HazeldenBettyFord.org to get started.