Saying the pandemic blues can affect anyone, the health unit is urging people who have been drinking more than usual to get help.
"Boredom, isolation, or stress may lead individuals to consume more alcohol than normal, but there is help in our community for those who need help to lower their alcohol use," read a release from the Windsor Essex County Health Unit.
"A recent study conducted by Nanos -- found that 25 per cent of Canadians were drinking more while at home during the pandemic," said Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Wajid Ahmed. "Individuals who reported drinking, most cited boredom, stress, and the lack of a regular schedule as the main factors."
As a result, the health unit is embarking on a new communications strategy using ads on radio and social media to help residents understand when their drinking has become problematic.
Before COVID-19, alcohol abuse ranked as the number one contributor to EMS calls and substance-related visits to the emergency department.
For many, alcohol is a coping strategy. However, Ahmed said there is a price.
"Alcohol can increase the risk of injury due to falls, motor vehicle crashes, drowning," he explained. "It can also lead to violence, including intimate partner violence and sexual assault, alcohol poisoning, depression and suicide."
Ahmed said there are resources to get help on the health unit's webpage or the Windsor Essex County Opioid and Substance Strategy. Those under the age of 20 can also call Kids Help Line at 1-800-668-6868.
