Stay Connected during COVID-19 with these Online Recovery Resources

As more and more safety measures are instated by governments around the globe to combat the coronavirus pandemic, meetings and events everywhere are being cancelled, and addiction recovery meetings are no exception. Social distancing means refraining from attending in-person meetings, which can present a major challenge to those who rely on the fellowship of these meetings in maintaining recovery. Luckily, online alternatives exist for those in recovery to take advantage of during this time. Here are some online meetings and virtual platforms that the Office of National Drug Control Policy encourages people to utilize for recovery support.

In The Rooms

In The Rooms hosts online meetings throughout the day, every day of the week, for Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and numerous other fellowships. Additionally, the site offers specialty meetings facilitated by recovery experts and professionals, with tons of topics to choose from, including meditation, yoga, sex and love, and trauma and recovery. A free account is the only requirement for entering the online meetings, making it easy to get started.

Al-Anon Electronic Meetings

Al-Anon Family Groups provides an extensive list of virtual and phone meetings for those affected by alcoholism. The list includes bulletin boards, email lists, chats, and virtual conferencing (Skype, Zoom, and more)—there are plenty of options to choose from.

SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery, with a name based on the acronym Self-Management And Recovery Training, has a series of online meetings available, primarily run through Zoom. The online community also has 24/7 message boards that members can use.

Refuge Recovery

Refuge Recovery, a movement and recovery process based on Buddhist principles, has online meetings each day of the week. Refuge Recovery is not a faith-based program, and those who participate in both 12 Step and non-12 Step approaches are welcomed. Learn more about the structure of Refuge Recovery meetings here.

What Now?

Explore these resources and find an online community that suits you. Regardless of which online support group you choose, make sure you get involved and stay connected with like-minded individuals in recovery.

Many treatment centers and doctors remain available during the pandemic to help patients seeking treatment for opioid addiction. If you’re looking for assistance, search the Buprenorphine Doctors directory for providers in your area, and call the number on the listing for more information.