Local Resources Available to Support Individuals Coping with Isolation through Alcohol consumption

Feeling overwhelmed and stressed in this unprecedented time can be challenging, and many people are looking to find ways to escape feelings of isolation. Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) Prevention Services urges individuals who may be consuming more alcohol as a means to cope with social distancing to explore NEK Collaborative’s comprehensive list of mental health, substance use and recovery resources at http://nekcollaborative.org/covid19/.

Increasing alcohol consumption may seem like an option to get through this pandemic. In the week ending March 21, sales on alcoholic beverages have spiked by 55 percent according to market research firm Nielsen. Drinking too much can have serious consequences for your brain and immune system, not to mention other vital organs. According to the National Institute of Health, “Alcohol interferes with the brain’s communication pathways, and can affect the way the brain looks and works. Drinking too much can weaken your immune system, making your body a much easier target for disease. Drinking a lot on a single occasion slows your body’s ability to ward off infections – even up to 24 hours after getting drunk.”

“It is very important to remain healthy and find healthy alternatives that are rewarding to you and your family,” NVRH Regional Prevention Partnerships (RPP) Coordinator Cheryl Chandler said. “There are local mental health resources to help you deal with the emotions that may be triggered by this COVID-19 pandemic. If you or someone you know finds themselves drinking more alcohol during this time, or is struggling with alcohol use disorder, there are many resources available to you.”

For more information regarding resource and access to support, call NVRH RPP Coordinator Cheryl Chandler at 802-748-7555 or NVRH Prevention Specialist Tennyson Marceau at 802-748-7332.