Alcohol Consumption Increases During the Holidays
Studies show that alcohol consumption can increase considerably during the holidays. With Thanksgiving fast approaching during a year unlike any other, it is important to take a minute and find ways to remain true to your sobriety or to seek treatment if you have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.
The holidays can undoubtedly be one of the most stressful times of the year. Between office parties, family obligations, and financial burdens, many people feel an added weight this time of year. The 2020 holiday season may be even more difficult for some as the Coronavirus continues to spread throughout the United States entering into its most dangerous phase to date.
Staying sober during the holidays can be difficult. Alcohol is used by many as a coping mechanism. Alcohol can help people deal with stressful situations such as overbearing family members or an uncertain financial future. Now, more than ever, it is imperative to address substance use issues including overconsuming alcohol.
According to the New York Post, “(t)he average American consumes double the amount of alcoholic drinks over the holidays, than any other time of the year.” This kind of excessive drinking can be exceptionally dangerous, particularly when there are added stressors. COVID-19 makes everything that much more difficult.
Whether someone is isolated from friends and family during the holidays, or has been hit hard financially because of shutdowns or job loss, the pandemic has been unrelenting with no signs of slowing. Some fear that this fall and winter could be even worse as far as cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are concerned.
Staying sober may be key to getting through this difficult period and surviving the stress of the holidays.