*This interview was recorded last summer, but the realities of the pandemic and alcohol use are still relevant today and so I am re-sharing this post. We continue to experience unique stressors, uncertainty, grief and isolation. This video provides specific steps you can try today to assess and alter behaviors and thoughts related to alcohol consumption.*

Each of us has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in a myriad of ways. In March we dove deep, headfirst, into a number of emotions and a new way of life that is ever-evolving.

Some people may find they are drinking more in one night or more days of the week than they used to before the pandemic. I was joined by Dr. Aisha Al-Qimlass, therapist at Creasman Counseling, who shared helpful insights of things to consider regarding alcohol use and coping during this time. You can view the recording using this link.

For additional mental health resources, please consider this Work/Life blog post: Mental Health and COVID-19.
For resources for grief, please consider this Work/Life blogpost: A year of COVID-19: grief and resources for support

"In the scope of self-care, you don't want to always do distracting things."

In the video, alcohol use is discussed as a way of coping by providing a distraction. If you are looking for alternative ideas for self-care here are a few online resources.

From SELF: 5 Art Therapy Exercises to Add to Your Self-Care Routine

From Greater Good Science Center: 36 Questions for Increasing Closeness

From Today: How to Find Time Alone at Home

From ADDitude: 12 Meditation Apps & Tools for Lifting Pandemic Anxiety

From MHA and Shine: Take a Break - Care for Your Coronavirus Anxiety Tool Kit

For couples: Gottman Card Deck App

For some, filling up their favorite glass with a special drink is a ritual that may bring a sense of comfort. I reached out to SAS's Nutritionists for recommendations of easy non-alcoholic drinks that aren't just water. Here are some ideas to try.

Resources for Substance Use Disorders

Mental Health America: Where to get help

Shatterproof COVID-19 Resources

SAMHSA Treatment Finder