WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - April 24, 2020 - Those in recovery from substance abuse and addiction will have new challenges to conquer as stay-at-home orders are lifted, businesses reopen, people begin to socialize at establishments, and life returns to "normal."

While quarantine and isolation measures may have helped slow the spread of COVID-19, those same measures have most likely take a toll on individuals' mental health. Now with businesses reopening, there will be a temptation for many to "make up for lost time" and potentially overdo, overuse, or test their sobriety.

Tanya Young Williams, Co-Founder and CEO of Pivot Treatment & Wellness Centers in Lake Park, Florida, shares her tips for those in recovery as they prepare for the reopening of the economy and outside world.

· Reasonably stock up on masks and gloves because many AA and NA meetings and support groups will require them to be worn.

· Make it a #1 priority to attend support groups and addiction related meetings. Start calling local organizations now to find out projected start dates.

· Structure is always a key element for sustained recovery. Be proactive with yourself and your recovery by making a plan and sticking to it.

· Stay away from places, people and activities that are known triggers for possible relapse. This may include the post-pandemic get-together at the local bar/night club; or the blow-out house party reuniting friends or classmates who have been apart.

· Take advantage of free counseling provided via telephone or computer. Pivot Treatment & Wellness Centers has a full resource list made available to clients and those interested.

· Just like in recovery, take this "new normal" one day at a time. Focus on transitioning back to normal life, attending meetings, working out with friends, and supporting local businesses you care about.

· Focus on mind and body health to keep you busy and focused.

About Tanya Young Williams

Tanya Young Williams is an African American businesswoman, advocate and former wife of basketball star Jayson Williams who had his own highly publicized challenges with substance abuse. She is an outlier in the addiction recovery world, as is black, female CEO in the addiction industry, making two years of positive outcomes at Pivot Treatment and Wellness Centers. Tanya's goal is to reverse the stigma against seeking help for addiction through recovery programs. For more information, visit https://pivotcenters.com/.

Contact
Melissa Perlman, BlueIvy Communications