Isolation During The COVID-19 Pandemic and People with Substance Use and Mental Disorders
Isolation During The COVID-19 Pandemic and People with Substance Use and Mental Disorders
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Issue Date
2025-07
Authors
Hijazi, Majida
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Abstract
Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic brought about unprecedented changes to daily life, including widespread social isolation, disruption of routines, and limited access to healthcare services. These conditions created a particularly challenging environment for individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs), a population already vulnerable to social and emotional instability. Isolation, uncertainty, and increased psychological stress contributed to a rise in substance use and relapse during this period (Czeisler et al., 2020; Panchal et al., 2021). While quantitative data has captured some of the trends in usage and relapse rates, there remains a critical need to understand the lived experiences of those affected. This qualitative study explored how pandemic-induced isolation affected individuals struggling with SUDs, focusing on their emotional, behavioral, and social experiences during lockdown. The aim was to gain deeper insights into the psychological toll of isolation, coping mechanisms employed, and perceived barriers to recovery support, thereby informing future clinical and policy responses in times of crisis. Guided by operant learning theory, this qualitative study explored the impact of pandemic-induced isolation on individuals with SUD and co-occurring mental health disorders, from the perspective of clinicians. Seven mental health professionals who provided care before, during, and after the isolation period in the United States were recruited using snowball sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured Zoom interviews and analyzed using a generic qualitative method with NVivo software. Three major themes and ten categories emerged, revealing that isolation exacerbated symptoms of anxiety, depression, and substance use, even in individuals with no prior mental health diagnoses. Clinicians highlighted the importance of adaptability, the rapid implementation of telehealth, and the need for both client and provider training in digital tools. Findings suggest that clinician experience played a critical role in navigating pandemic-related challenges and maintaining continuity of care. The study underscores the necessity of investing in future preparedness, including increased technological training and strategic planning for mental health professionals and clients alike. Recommendations and future research directions include the development of scalable, flexible treatment approaches to be employed during similar public health crises.