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Alcoholism in the Time of COVID: A Personal Struggle
During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased isolation and stress led to a significant rise in alcohol consumption. Many, including those in essential jobs, faced solitude that drove them towards drinking as a coping mechanism. In particular, there was a startling increase in alcohol-related deaths, with statistics indicating around 178,000 deaths from 2020 to 2021, surpassing deaths from all drug overdoses combined, including opioids. The toll of alcohol abuse manifested in debilitating feelings of shame and guilt, as some individuals found themselves engaging in destructive behaviors such as day drinking and blacking out. Despite repeated intentions to change their behavior, many struggled with the cycle of addiction, leading to physical deterioration and mental anguish. The search for assistance often began with online research for rehab options, highlighting the urgent need for support and understanding during such a tumultuous time.