The isolation created by the stay at home order and social distancing can be especially difficult for those recovering from addiction to alcohol and/or drugs.

Many rely on regular meetings with others battling addiction to talk through their struggles in staying sober.  KFDI News reached out to the community to learn how they are adapting and trying to navigate the public health crisis of Covid-19 while avoiding falling back into addiction.

The person we spoke to is a member of Alcoholics Anonymous and has served as a sponsor.  She asked not to be identified, but spoke to us about how AA in the Wichita area is adapting to the challenges.

She says that some Alcoholics Anonymous halls stayed open prior to the governor’s executive order, but they removed tables and created large space to adhere to social distancing.  They are now conducting meetings over the video conferencing system Zoom.

Groups have voted for and paid for memberships for longer calling time.  She says it was hard for the first couple of weeks to accept the changes.

She hasn’t attended a meeting in person in several weeks but has participated in at least 10 Zoom meetings.  She says members are also video conferencing with their sponsors and speaking over the phone.

She says those that are wanting to attend a video meeting or who are in need of help can visit aawichita.org to find a list of meeting schedules.  They also have a hotline that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week where someone is always available to answer questions and help anyone who is seeking sobriety.

The number is 316-684-3661.  If you are having a mental health crisis, you can also contact the Community Crisis Center at 316-660-7500.

If you are having suicidal thoughts call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.