Addiction and mental stress during the COVID-19 pandemic Exclusive clinics in Switzerland offer successful recovery programmes

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Intro

The combination of anxieties, restrictions and lack of personal connection during the Coronavirus crisis has a negative impact on addictive disorders. Dependence on alcohol and medication, but also other addictions such as internet addiction, are increasing rapidly. Mental health suffers during this difficult time, possibly leading to burnout. Professional assistance in a specialised clinic in Switzerland can help break the vicious circle. The Swiss private clinics MENTALVA and Meiringen as well as Clinic les Alpes offer promising programmes for international guests.

Text: Dr Kathrin Zimmermann

Anxieties and worries can trigger escape into addiction

The world has changed a lot due to the SARS-CoV-2 pathogen. Physical distancing regulations and restricted social contact are an issue everywhere. The reduced freedom of movement due to lockdowns and quarantine regulations have an impact on our mental health. Fears and worries are on the rise. In moments like these, people resort to tried and tested coping strategies. Addiction has its attractions as an easy way out.

The Coronavirus pandemic has a negative impact on mental health and addictive behaviour. Now is the right time to seek professional help.
Dr Randolph Willis, Medical Director of Clinic les Alpes
Clinic Les Alpes: This exclusive private clinic welcomes its international guests with the utmost discretion in the breathtaking surroundings of the Swiss Alps. The highly qualified team of doctors and therapists will draw up individual treatment plans for withdrawal and long-term aftercare. Medical therapy follows a holistic approach in a luxurious environment with the best service.

The right time for an intervention

Patients with addictions will use any minor reason to avoid withdrawal or therapy. The Coronavirus pandemic provides a good excuse, as travel is much more complicated these days. However, the timing could hardly be better when it comes to a stay in a rehabilitation clinic. As public life has come to a standstill, an absence of a few weeks doesn’t pose a major problem and is easy to organise.

The first step — reaching out

Addicts often feel great shame and also guilt towards their environment and their family members. The first step is to realise that help is needed. The private clinics in Switzerland support their patients from the very first point of contact. Needs and challenges can be discussed in meetings with professionals. It is important to define expectations and to show the possibilities and limits of a particular therapy.

Successful programmes for recovery

Addiction therapy for substance abuse follows four phases. The first phase is the motivation phase. Admitting the addiction and accepting help are the basis for further therapy. After that, actual detoxification can begin. Physical dependence is overcome during the weaning phase and work is done to improve the patient's psychological state. The final phase is long-term follow-up.

Addictions such as alcohol and drug dependencies can be successfully treated nowadays.
Prof. Thomas Jörg Müller, Chief Physician of the Meiringen Private Clinic
Privatklinik Meiringen: This first-class private clinic in the heart of Switzerland ideally combines tradition and a progressive approach. This safe and secure environment welcomes people with all kinds of mental issues. A specialised department for behavioural addictions and a burnout ward offer excellent programmes that follow current medical-psychiatric standards. Healthy, balanced nutrition and quiet patient rooms help make the stay particularly pleasant.

Burnout — when everything seems impossible

The changes in work practices due to the COVID-19 pandemic, worries about the future and the fear of the virus increase mental stress. Everyone deals with this situation differently. Complete mental and physical exhaustion is a typical sign of burnout. Professional assistance and a hospital stay can help in restoring inner balance.

More and more people are affected by depression or burnout and need professional help. We are there for them.
PD Dr Andres R. Schneeberger, Chief Physician of the MENTALVA Private Clinic
Privatklinik MENTALVA: This premium private clinic in the heart of the natural relaxing surroundings of the Swiss mountains offers individual, psychiatric treatment with a focus on psychotherapy supplemented by complementary medicine such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Diverse treatment methods restore balance for body and soul. The upscale living quarters and the spa and wellness area guarantee relaxation and well-being.

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