FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

In-person Recovery Meetings Are Essential
New Jersey sees 17% increase in drug-related deaths since start of stay at home order

New Jersey (May 15, 2020) – During these unprecedented and challenging times, we appreciate the difficult decisions the Governor has had to make during this public health crisis. The New Jersey Alliance of Recovery Residences (NJARR), a nonprofit organization focusing on recovery standards founded in 2015, is calling for allowing in-person recovery meetings again. While it has been an especially difficult time for New Jerseyans also suffering with the disease of addiction as individuals are isolated now more than ever.

NJARR President Terri Burns stated, “One of the key components on the road to recovery is the structure and guidance individuals receive as part of the 12-step meeting process. Without these meetings, and subject to isolation, an increased rate of relapses and overdoses is unfortunately becoming a reality in New Jersey.”

While modern technology has provided many benefits to those in recovery, it tends to help individuals who are already well along and established in their recovery. In-person meetings are critical for those who are new to recovery. Ultimately, the 12-step process is a fellowship founded in community and connection, these goals are difficult to experience online.

Based on feedback from NJARR members, virtual meetings are more helpful for individuals that are more along in their recovery process. In person meetings are vital for those that are new to recovery because they are not yet plugged into a support system and the structure that it provides. The worst thing for someone in recovery, especially for someone new to the program who lacks the structure and support system is isolation.

According to statistics from the Office of the Attorney General, drug-related deaths in New Jersey have increased 17% during March and April of 2020 as compared to the same timeframe in 2019.

NJARR is calling for changes to be made to allow for in-person recovery meetings while maintaining social distancing protocols. For example, Executive Order 122 establishes social distancing policies for those businesses deemed “essential.” These protocols (i.e. limiting workgroups to ten or fewer individuals, maintaining six feet of separation, staggering entrance and exit times, etc.) could be implementing as part of recovery meetings to protect those who are most vulnerable in isolation. Without the ability to have the option of in-person meetings, unfortunately an increase in relapses and overdoses will continue to be a reality.

Burns concluded, “These extremely challenging times for everyone, especially those in recovery. The Attorney General’s statistics highlight the sad reality that drug-related deaths will only continue to increase unless safe and reasonable accommodations for in-person recovery meetings can be made to help one of New Jersey’s most vulnerable populations.”
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