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PHOENIX — Rising unemployment due to the spread of the coronavirus could be triggering an increase of relapses among those struggling to maintain sobriety, warns the founder of a treatment facility in Prescott.

Holdfast Recovery Center Founder Brendon McDonough told KTAR News 92.3 FM on Wednesday that his treatment center has experienced an increase in those seeking treatment.

“Usually we sit around 10 to 12 clients,” he said. “Right now, we are seeing roughly 16 to 20 clients.”

He attributes the rise in relapses and increased addictions to the growing number of people becoming unemployed.

“More people are out of work and they’re home alone … mental illness comes into play and they have to face that,” McDonough said.

In practicing social distancing, both Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous have boosted their online services. They now offer live video meetings on computers or phone screens rather than in person.

Treatment centers have also extended their telehealth offerings for patients in an effort to keep medical staff and patient safe.

“Congregating with others is really something people gain strength and hope from,” McDonough added.

“It’s been really difficult for people who need to be social and also rely on that professional interaction.”

A recovered addict himself, McDonough believes many people may be experiencing substance abuse or mental health struggles for first time amid the pandemic.

“A lot of people are now suffering and experiencing it for the first time … stemming from anxiety and depression they didn’t even know about,” McDonough continued.

“We want people to know they’re not alone.”

McDonough founded Holdfast Recovery Center two years ago after suffering from his own personal traumas that led to his addiction. He was the lone survivor apart of the Granite Mountain Hotshots crew based in Prescott, Arizona. On June 30 2013, a wildfire trapped and killed 19 of his colleagues. Nationwide, it was the greatest loss of firefighters lives since 9/11.

Those interested in learning about Holdfast’s treatment program can go online or call: 800-351-6858.

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For all articles, information and updates on the coronavirus from KTAR News, visit ktar.com/coronavirus.