PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — In times of stress, many people turn to alcohol to reduce the tension, but some of the latest numbers are concerning.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital often conduct real-time studies looking at current issues. A recent example is the Substance Use Disorders Initiative focusing on drinking in the pandemic.
A new report found an increase in drinking days per month for the average person by about 15%. Women have been hit the hardest, with an increase in heavy drinking days by 41%.
Contributing factors: anxiety, boredom and working from home. The lack of separation from work — even with an annoying commute — has blurred lines and increased stress.
One strategy to curb excessive drinking is to exercise at the end of the day or meditate. Alcohol may seem like a quick fix, but it is a short-term and addictive problem.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.