COVID lockdowns gave rise to home dynamics that people had never seen before, work-from-home life skyrocketed, children learned at the family computer, and close quarters resulted in relationship stress for couples. At the same time, the normal entertainment options were unavailable, and people looked to new hobbies for comfort. Right alongside the homemade sourdough boom came a slew of amateur mixologists putting cocktail shakers to use in their kitchens, more often than they ever had.
In 2020 alone, there were 99,017 alcohol-related deaths, and in 2021, there were 108,791.1 With people drinking to help manage their feelings of anxiety, loneliness, and helplessness during unprecedented times, it’s no wonder that COVID’s impact on alcohol use continues to be felt. At True Life we can help you find freedom from unhealthy coping skills that no longer serve you. If you or someone you loved one is still feeling the impact of COVID, call 866.420.1792 to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment in San Diego, CA.
COVID and Alcohol Use Disorder
For many, stress, isolation, and uncertainty became catalysts for excessive drinking and alcohol use disorder (AUD) during COVID. It’s not uncommon, during any period of intense pressure, for people to turn to coping strategies that are unhealthy for a sense of relief, even if it’s temporary. This can look like excessive shopping, eating, substance use or any number of things that, left unchecked, can spiral out of control. Unless people are taught healthy coping strategies to help manage their stress, it’s likely they’ll engage in behavior that isn’t healthy.
During the first week of COVID lockdowns there was a 54% increase in alcohol sales in and a 262% increase in online alcohol sales.2 Though people often believe alcohol consumption will help to reduce their stress, what’s more accurate is that alcohol can actually cause mental health issues to worsen by:
- Causing disruption to the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which leads to increased feelings of anxiety and depression
- Impairing sleep quality, which is critical for mental health and emotional regulation
- Initiating structural and functional changes in the brain that intensify mental health symptoms.
- Worsening symptoms of PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric conditions by lowering emotional resilience
If you’re still feeling the impact of pandemic-induced AUD, reach out to True Life at our alcohol addiction treatment center in San Diego, CA.
Is Alcohol Use Still Increased?
In 2024, the Keck School of Medicine, University Southern California, reported that COVID’s impact on alcohol use has persisted into 2022, with sustained high rates of drinking across demographics, including age, race, and gender.3
The pandemic amplified stress and gave individuals more time at home with easy access to alcohol any time of the day. It created a perfect storm for dependency issues. If you’re wondering if perhaps you’re experiencing AUD, here are a few warning signs to watch out for:
- Drinking more frequently or in larger quantities than intended
- Struggling to cut back or stop drinking despite negative consequences
- Neglecting responsibilities or relationships due to alcohol use
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
If these signs are familiar, it may be time to seek professional treatment. Early intervention can prevent further health complications and provide a clearer path to recovery. There is hope.
Comprehensive Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder in San Diego
Seeking help for alcohol addiction is a courageous step. At True Life Center, we understand that the pandemic happened to all of us and we’re here to help you recover with empathetic support. Our evidence-based therapies and holistic care address the root causes of your addiction. Our programs include:
- Customized care plans – Tailored to meet your specific needs.
- Holistic therapies – including mindfulness, meditation, and yoga to support the mind-body connection.
- Evidence-based treatments – Such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Partial hospitalization (PHP) and intensive outpatient programs (IOP) – Flexible treatment options to fit your lifestyle
Our integrative model for alcohol addiction treatment goes beyond symptom management by fostering long-term recovery and wellness.
Call True Life Center for Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Located in the heart of San Diego, True Life Center offers a luxurious and supportive environment designed to help patients heal. You’ll benefit from the expertise of our multidisciplinary team, including doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, and holistic practitioners, all dedicated to bringing you the highest quality care.
You can reclaim the years that COVID took by reclaiming your sobriety. Call 866.420.1792 or use our online contact form.
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