Has the pandemic affected alcoholism? Many people are unfamiliar with the factors that can drive addiction. Most of the time, the triggers for addiction are very personal situations and experiences, not large-scale pandemic events. Yet, there is evidence to point to an increasingly high risk for alcoholism to develop right now due to the current situation. When it comes down to it, it’s important to know how it is impacting you. If alcoholism is impacting your life, reach out to BrightView now to find out how we can help you.
Why Does the Pandemic Impact Addiction?
There are many things that have changed in the U.S. this year. From the ongoing strife in politics to social unrest. Yet, it may be the pandemic that has impacted the increasing rates of addiction more so than anything else.
Increase in Stress
Many individuals are facing increased stress levels during the pandemic. Uncertainty about when the pandemic will be over or if your loved ones will get sick can make it difficult to get through the day. You may be worried about your own health. Other types of stress include:
- Differing opinions about the pandemic in your home
- Worries about loved ones
- Fear about what you don’t know
- Being unsure of just how serious this will hurt your family for years to come
- Feeling stress because there’s nothing you can do to completely fix the problem
Stress is a driver of alcoholism. Because alcohol helps to slow down the function of the brain, it can help to stop you from having these types of rapid thoughts. That may help you reduce your stress for a short period.
Increase in Isolation
The pandemic has made it necessary for you to stay away from friends and family. You may not be getting the time and attention you need from loved ones. You may not have seen people that are important to you in months. That makes using alcohol a coping mechanism.
Less Access to Mental Health Services
For some people, alcoholism and addiction as a whole have increased because it can seem impossible to get help right now. You may know you need it, but it’s hard to get treatment. The good news is that at BrightView, we offer programs available through telehealth – if you cannot come in, you can still get that help.
Intensifying Anxiety and Fear
You’re worried about so much, and that’s creating increased anxiety in your mind. You may be worried about your job and your family’s future. You may be afraid of what’s to come if you cannot get in to see a loved one at a hospital or nursing home. You’re worried about illness. All of this ramps up day after day, especially when you focus on the statistics and social media. All of this increases your need to drink to get through it.
Help for Alcoholism During the Pandemic
What’s always essential when it comes to addiction of any type is understanding what’s happening to you. Are you struggling with using substances to deal with the world around you? Do you feel like you cannot stop because you don’t want to face stress? You’re not alone, and you have options for overcoming these challenges. Our team at BrightView can offer help and guidance to you. We do that through the use of treatment programs such as these:
- Outpatient treatment programs
- Medication-assisted treatment program
- Addiction recovery treatment options
- Counseling and therapy for addiction
- Peer recovery supporters
When You’re Facing Addiction, Let BrightView Help
What has the pandemic done to you? Learn about how the pandemic affects alcoholism. Take the time to find out what can be done to help you with your future. Call BrightView today to get the path started towards healing at 833-510-4357.