The Contributions of Psychologists and Social Workers in Providing Support to Families Impacted by Substance use Disorders Amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic: Review

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing mental health challenges, particularly for families affected by substance use disorders (SUD). This paper reviews the critical roles of psychologists and social workers in addressing the psychological and social impacts of addiction within the context of the pandemic.

Methods: Utilizing a comprehensive literature review methodology, relevant studies from the Medline database were analyzed, focusing on the intersection of COVID-19, mental health, and addiction.

Results: The findings reveal a significant increase in mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and substance use exacerbation, among families grappling with SUD during the pandemic. Psychologists and social workers have been pivotal in delivering essential services, such as teletherapy, psychoeducation, and crisis intervention, which have adapted to the constraints imposed by social distancing measures. Key interventions identified include fostering resilience among families, promoting coping strategies, and facilitating access to community resources.

Conclusions: In conclusion, the pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for integrated mental health services that address both addiction and associated family dynamics. The contributions of mental health professionals are indispensable in mitigating the adverse effects of COVID-19 on families affected by SUD. Future research should aim to explore the long-term impacts of the pandemic on addiction recovery and the effectiveness of virtual support services.