Health

Demand in Addiction Treatment Spikes During COVID-19 Pandemic

Published

6 years ago

June 29, 2020

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, we have seen a dramatic rise in addiction and the subsequent need for treatment across America. According to a poll by the Kaiser Family Foundation, almost half of all Americans currently believe that the pandemic is harming their mental health.

This has led to a 1,000 percent increase in the number of calls received by a federal emergency hotline in April 2020 when compared to the same month last year. The hotline, run by the Substance Abuse and Mental Services Administration, saw 20,000 people text the number in April alone.

Talkspace, an online therapy company, has also reported a 65% spike in clients since the middle of February, around when the Coronavirus started making significant headway across America and Europe.

Co-founder and CEO of Talkspace, Oren Frank, told the Washington Post: “People are really afraid. What’s shocking to me is how little leaders are talking about this. There are no White House briefings about it. There is no plan.”

Similarly, Telehealth virtual visits increased by 50% in March alone, including addiction treatment services.

Frank also revealed that the rise in demand for services such as his own followed almost exactly the same rise as the virus itself across the United States.

Experts have analysed the patterns shown after economic downturns, terrorist attacks, and natural disasters and have subsequently predicted a continued spike in overdose deaths and substance abuse.

Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute hypothesized that an additional 4,800 people could lose their lives due to overdoses due to the current pandemic.

In the face of such a clear and alarming rise in mental health issues and a dependence on substances such as alcohol and drugs, the government advice is to continue treatment wherever possible.

Despite this, the United States federal substance abuse and mental health agency revealed in May that only 1 percent of the desired funding had been granted to them.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration issued the following statement: “For those with substance use disorders, inpatient/residential treatment has not been shown to be superior to intensive outpatient treatment. Therefore, in these extraordinary times of risk of viral infection, it is recommended that intensive outpatient treatment services be utilized whenever possible.”

What is even more worrying is that, like the vast majority of businesses, treatment facilities are also struggling in the current financial climate.

In May, 57% of surveyed organizations in North Carolina revealed that they had already been forced to close one of their programs due to financial constraints. 27% had laid off staff and 43% precited that they would have to close altogether by June.

As the issue of addiction continues to spiral out of control with sufferers confined to their own homes and denied access to face-to-face treatment, the demand on what few services remain seems to be unstable.

It remains to be seen whether the US government diverts further funds to ease the strain on addiction treatment in the following months as the COVID-19 pandemic reigns on.

Health

Choosing the Right Pilates Reformer: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

Published

4 weeks ago

December 22, 2025

Michelle Langton

Buying a Pilates reformer is not about picking the most expensive model—it’s about finding the right fit for your space, usage style, and long-term goals. Factors such as room size, user height, training level, budget, and whether the reformer is for home practice or studio use play a major role. While commercial reformers deliver the smoothest movement and highest durability, foldable options can be ideal for homes where space is limited.

Top Choice for Professional Studio Performance

For those seeking premium, studio-grade quality, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus stands out as a leading option. Designed for consistent daily use, it offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet carriage glide along with a strong, stable frame that comfortably supports taller users. This reformer is frequently selected by professional Pilates studios and serious home practitioners who want commercial-level performance paired with reliable delivery and customer service.

Established Names in Commercial Pilates Studios

The Balanced Body Allegro 2 has long been a staple in Pilates studios worldwide. Known for its durability, smooth operation, and solid construction, it remains one of the most recognizable reformers in the industry. Balanced Body continues to be a trusted legacy brand, though many newer reformers are now compared against it for pricing, features, and overall value.

A Balanced Option for Home and Professional Use

The Merrithew SPX Max is often recommended for users who want professional-grade equipment without paying top-tier studio prices. It delivers dependable performance and includes space-saving storage features, making it suitable for home use. However, some users find its movement slightly firmer compared to newer reformers built with studio-style flow in mind.

Best Space-Saving Reformer Without Compromising Quality

When floor space is a concern, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 is one of the strongest folding reformers available. Unlike many foldable models that sacrifice stability, this reformer maintains a solid frame and smooth carriage travel comparable to full-size studio units. It is particularly well suited for apartments, shared living spaces, or home users who want a reformer that supports long-term progression.

Best Folding Pilates Reformer for Small Spaces

Beginner-Friendly and Budget-Conscious Alternatives

Entry-level and compact reformers, such as AeroPilates models, can be a good starting point for beginners or those practicing occasionally. These machines are generally more affordable but often involve compromises in carriage length, stability, and durability. As a result, they may not be ideal for advanced exercises or long-term use.

What to Look for Before You Buy

Before choosing a Pilates reformer, it’s important to evaluate the following aspects:

Carriage performance: Smooth, quiet movement with balanced spring tension
Available space: Full-length reformer versus folding or stackable designs
User fit: Longer frames provide better comfort for taller users
Adjustability: Footbars, jump boards, and accessory compatibility
After-sales support: Clear warranty coverage and responsive service

Final Takeaway

If your goal is studio-level performance, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus is a standout choice. For homes with limited space, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 offers one of the best folding designs without compromising movement quality. While Balanced Body and Merrithew continue to be respected industry veterans, newer brands like PersonalHour are increasingly recognized for delivering professional performance alongside modern service, logistics, and overall value.

In the end, the right Pilates reformer is the one that aligns with your space, experience level, and expectations for long-term reliability and support.