Headlines describe the problem: COVID-19 opened the door to mental and emotional problems, even as the virus quarantined us.
But they don’t solve the problems, the hidden hurts, that alcohol abuse can inflict.(Pretending Was a Dangerous Game)
Seems if we ever wondered, do we have a problem with booze before mid-March, the past six months have answered us. Headlines warn more of us may have moved from being a social drinker to a problem drinker:
Nielsen reports alcohol sales in stores were up 54% in late March compared to that time last year, while online sales were up nearly 500% in late April. (COVID-19 Pandemic brings new concerns about Excessive Drinking)
So do headlines from across the pond, too:
In June, more than 8.4m people in England were drinking at higher-risk levels, up from 4.8m in February.(Soaring Alcohol Misuse Could Overwhelm Service in the UK)
Looks like social distancing has meant having to live more intimately with habits, hang-ups and hurts that our former routines could disguise.
Remembering well the painful fog alcohol generated in my life, I know that just knowing the dangers didn’t help heal the hidden hurt I received and inflicted.
Getting Help Did
No, we don’t have the help we had pre- Pandemic; neither did Bill W and Doctor Bob when they decided to get sober.
However, we have the principles they developed.
A meeting sure helps; hearing the stories was my lifeline. But working the STEPS made the lifeline secure. And my higher power, dear reader, has held. (My Anchor Holds)
Stopping drinking begins with one step . . . Admitting I have a problem. Staying sane and sober begins with Asking for help. It’s the same step to take if you are with a loved one who drinks.
COVID-19 is a huge disruption and disincentive!
I still don’t do well in electronic meetings; I read, and I talk to friends in recovery. I use my sponsor! And my Higher Power. (Warning to Pastors and Me: This is a Test)
Recovering alcoholics have been given a great gift that we can keep only when we give it away . . . which is why I write. When you are ready, you might click on this link: Alcoholics Anonymous.
Take all the time you need, but hurry up, friend. (Counting the Cost of Denial)
God bless you – thank you so much for reading!
I value your comments or questions
Love in Christ,
Sober and Grateful
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