Navigating Alcoholism During the Pandemic

Alcoholism treatment during the pandemic is clearly a topic worth talking about. With Americans drinking 14% more often in 2020, it’s clear that a significant amount of new alcohol users are in need of help. While some places are beginning to open up, others are still shut down, leaving many of those who need help for their alcoholism waiting.

Despite the lack of regular social and public resources, there are many ways to get help for those who want it. Here are a few:

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are typically held in person, but since the pandemic, many of them are held online. While the in-person and collaborative nature of these meetings is not at the forefront, it’s still possible to get the help you need from this organization.

The structure is still the same; most begin with a group of people introducing themselves by their first name (or, in some cases, a username) and sharing why they are there.

People who have questions can ask anonymously or publicly.  A lot of the time, they will have informal chats over private messages with anyone willing to talk about what’s on their mind that day or any other topic, which is something that many actually find more convenient than in-person meetings. People struggling with alcoholism can also ask for advice or tips about how to quit drinking, and the members are there to help them through it.

There are many online directories that can give you specific information on Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in your area, including specific information on each individual meeting.

Online Counseling Services

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are not the right fit for everyone. That doesn’t mean there aren’t any other options for them, though. There are a lot of counseling options for those who want to make a change in their lives. 

Many people find that counseling is a great way to process their feelings and work through any issues they are having from the comfort of their own homes. This can be related to relationships, anxiety or stress, or even alcoholism itself.

Counselors help you work out what’s wrong so you can fix it for yourself. They don’t give advice; rather, they help you find your own way of doing things.

They have a lot of different ways to help, from playing games and talking about feelings to focusing on specific goals or memories that can be overwhelming for the patient. They don’t just focus on alcohol abuse either. They also work with people who are struggling with other addictions as well. 

Counselors can provide you with a list of all their qualifications before an appointment as well as information on the services that they offer, including treatment costs. 

Online Support Groups

There are probably many others who are going through similar things as you. Online support groups help you connect with others who are going through similar experiences, so you feel less alone.

These support groups can be found through many different online directories, Facebook, and blog posts and they can range from a simple discussion about what is going on in your life to helping you find the next way forward. Some may even result in long-lasting relationships with other members.

There are many ways to get help during the pandemic. Alcoholics Anonymous meetings provide people with a safe space in which they can talk about their feelings and what’s going on in their lives, but if that doesn’t work for you or if there aren’t any nearby AA meetings available, don’t worry! There are other options out there too.

If counseling services sound like something you might be interested in, make sure to do your research before committing – counseling may not be right for everyone. Online support groups also offer an alternative way of getting social interaction without having to leave your house or interact directly with others.

It is important to remember that no matter how someone gets help, alcoholism itself cannot be cured overnight. It takes time and a lot of tenacity, but with the right support system in place, you can do it!