(WWJ) Drinking a little bit more, or a lot more these days? You're far from alone.
A new survey shows orders to stay home during the coronavirus pandemic have led to more adults consuming alcohol and drugs to cope with stress. More than one in four adults (28%) said they have used alcohol or drugs to feel better, according to the University of Michigan study, which tracked behaviors a week after the World Health Organization announced the pandemic in mid-March. Adults are using various coping strategies to deal with mental and physical health concerns related to uncertainty with the pandemic. The concerns include feeling tired or having little energy, trouble sleeping and relaxing, and feeling hopeless and afraid, said Shawna Lee, the report's lead author and U-M associate professor of social work. She collaborated on the report with doctoral student Kaitlin Ward. The sample included responses from 562 adults (both parents and nonparents) — many who indicated high levels of depression and anxiety in the previous two weeks.
"A large number of adults are facing economic uncertainty, financial concerns and social isolation because of the pandemic. It may not be not be surprising to see alcohol and drug use rise as a result. Another worry is the elevated levels of depression and anxiety," said Shawna Lee, U-M associate professor of social work and lead author of the study.
As disruptions to daily life worsen, mental health professionals need to be prepared for an increase in mental health and substance use problems, Lee said.
WHO — which reports 3 million people die per year worldwide due harmful use of alochol — has said drinking alcohol to deal with stress amid the pandemic isn't a healthy option.
If you need help dealing with anxiety during this difficult time, there are resources available. For informaton from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention on coping, visit this link.
In Michigan, residents can access a specially-curated collection of science-backed, evidence-based guided meditations, along with at-home workouts that guide people through mindful exercises, sleep and kids content to help address rising stress and anxiety. It's available at www.headspace.com.
This virus has taken a toll on Michiganders’ physical and mental health." Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. While we all stay home and stay safe, it is so important take the time to check in and take care yourself. Michiganders are tough, but having access to tools like this one will help us all get through this together.”