At the risk of repeating what all of us hear and read in the news every day, the country is facing a pandemic unlike never before. Everyone is at risk during this public health crisis, but sadly there is a vulnerable population that many of us haven't thought about. Our loved ones and neighbors fighting drug and alcohol dependency are facing new challenges that can put them in risky situations, both physically and legally.

Drug and alcohol addictions don't stop for pandemics or stay-at-home orders. Social distancing rules have effectively shut down outpatient and rehab facilities, as well as both local and national support meetings. This has severed a lifeline for many people in recovery struggling to stay sober and out of trouble.

“One common expression you hear in [Alcoholics Anonymous] is, ‘Don't wander into your head alone. It's a dangerous neighborhood,' ” said Deni Carise, Ph.D., of the Recovery Centers of America. “What do you do when you can't go to a meeting? How do you get support when you can't meet with other people in recovery? I'm worried that the isolation will lead people to start questioning their recovery or put them at risk.”

With shelter-in-place orders in effect at the moment, some people dealing with alcohol or drug addiction may feel they have no other options and engage in criminal behavior, resulting in drug arrests or drunk driving charges. Under the type of stress many citizens are under – including unemployment, family strife, and financial concerns – people may find themselves making bad decisions.

However, you can always look to me for experienced defense if you find yourself in legal trouble. In the meantime, Buzzfeed News has gathered a comprehensive list of recovery resources you may find helpful during this time.

12-step meetings and resources:

• Alcoholics Anonymous Intergroup Directory of Online Meetings
• Online Group AA Meetings
• AA Online Meetings
• In the Rooms Online Meetings
• Narcotics Anonymous Virtual Meetings (online and phone)
• Narcotics Anonymous World Services (includes NA help lines and websites)

Non–12-step resources:

• LifeRing Online Meetings
• SMART Recovery Online Toolbox (meetings and resources)
• Women for Sobriety (community forums and phone support)

Additionally, you can get help by calling the national Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) hotline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). This is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. SAMHSA provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.

During this stressful and anxious time, if things go wrong, I can help. To schedule a consultation in either our Fort Mill office on Gold Hill Road, or in our Rock Hill office on Oakland Avenue, please call 803-590-6725 or contact us online. Our team serves clients in the York, Lancaster, and Chester County communities.