
Alcohol consumption is on the rise as the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues. Due to the “new” and stressful nature of our daily indoor living restrictions, pay attention to these alcohol abuse warning signs to protect your or a loved one’s health.
Alcohol may seem like an immediate stress reliever, but it can be harmful to your overall health and well-being when consumed in excess. And, since alcohol is a depressant, both physically and mentally, those already prone to depression or sadness may find those feelings exacerbated by drinking.*
Try using other stress-relieving outlets like walking, staying virtually connected with friends, or taking up a new indoor hobby or craft instead of having a drink. It doesn’t take long for the body to become addicted to drinking alcohol, even in a short period of time.
Alcohol abuse does not cause a physical dependency, but it is still a serious issue that can be brought on by things like stress at home or work, a traumatic experience, or other similar experiences.
Alcoholism, or alcohol dependency, is a disease that causes a loss of control when drinking, strong cravings for alcohol, an increased tolerance to feel the same effect, and withdrawal symptoms.
Alcohol is an addictive substance. Be mindful of your alcohol use and always pay attention to how much you’re drinking.
Click on the images below to find out the most common warning signs of alcohol abuse now.
*C. Vaile Wright, director of clinical research and quality in the Practice Directorate for the American Psychological Association
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Sources
“How Alcohol Is Linked to Memory Loss,” Healthline. Accessed April 3, 2020
https://www.healthline.com/health/alcoholism/alcohol-and-memory-loss#symptoms
“As pandemic and stay-at-home orders spread, so does alcohol consumption,” The Washington Post. April 2, 2020.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/as-pandemic-and-stay-at-home-orders-spread-so-does-alcohol-consumption/2020/04/02/ad41bc3c-7430-11ea-87da-77a8136c1a6d_story.html
“Warning Signs of Alcoholism,” Department of Mental and Substance Abuse Services. Accessed March 30, 2020.
https://www.hhs.gov/programs/prevention-and-wellness/mental-health-substance-abuse/index.html
“Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse,” Medline Plus. Accessed March 30, 2020.
https://medlineplus.gov/alcoholismandalcoholabuse.html
“Alcohol and Drug Use,” NYC Health. Accessed March 30, 2020.
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/alcohol-and-drug-use.page