A list of free online meeting options, as well as platforms where individuals can interact virtually with others in recovery, has been released by James Carroll, Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP).

Carroll made the announcement in a letter released March 31. The full text of that letter is listed below.

Letter from the ONDCP Director

 

Dear Colleagues,

We understand that with the need for social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19, many of you have been unable to attend in-person support group meetings. For those in recovery, continuing to stay connected to your social support communities can be critical in maintaining recovery. As time passes, it becomes even more essential for you to stay in touch with your social support groups.

During this time, we recommend leveraging technology to remain connected with the communities you’ve built during your journey, and take this opportunity to forge new relationships online. Social distancing does not mean social isolation.

Attached is a list of a few free online meeting options, as well as platforms where you can interact virtually with others in recovery. While ONDCP is not endorsing any particular organization or online platform, we encourage you to utilize these resources and others to stay connected. Please consider sharing these resources with others on your journey of recovery as well as with your family members, friends, and other individuals in your community.

We admire the great efforts you’ve taken throughout your recovery journey, including the key role you play in helping others find pathways to recovery. Fear and anxiety about COVID-19 can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions. Please take the necessary measures to ensure your safety and that of your family, friends, colleagues, and broader community. I encourage you to visit coronavirus.gov to find out more and learn how to prepare and protect yourself and your community.

Please now that we are continuing to work hard every day to make sure that we are getting you additional assistance, such as getting more access to telemedicine and expanding the ability to have additional quantities of medication.

Until we can meet again, we are keeping you in our thoughts and holding you close in our thoughts.