Concerns Grow After Physicians See Rise in Alcohol and Drug Use
According to an interview published by Central Michigan University’s College of Medicine indicates that there has been a stark increase in substance abuse during the pandemic. As noted by a physician and professor at the college, more people are experiencing mental health struggles such as anxiety and depression. More people are also suffering from relapses who had previously struggled with substance abuse.
As noted in the article, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services saw an over 40 percent increase in opioid overdoses. Michigan wasn’t alone. A number of other states also reported the rise. More people also reported using other drugs and alcohol throughout the pandemic and subsequent shutdowns.
An uncertain economic future coupled with isolation and a worldwide health crisis has proven to be a disastrous combination. Millions of people have already been laid off with the threat of temporary furloughs becoming more permanent in the future. Job loss or financial hardship can be a tipping point for some people.
It is important to seek help if you have an unhealthy dependence or reliance on alcohol. It can be difficult to diagnose a substance use problem on your own. Because the coronavirus has led to isolation from normal support groups, it may be easier to conceal an underlying problem as well.
Read more about the warning signs from Central Michigan University’s College of Medicine “Substance abuse on the rise during pandemic.”
There are treatment options even while some services remain shut down, you can get the help that you need for drug and alcohol use disorders. If you are unsure about how much is too much, consider taking a self-assessment or consulting a medical professional. It never hurts to ask for help and get tips for how to reduce your intake.