INDIANAPOLIS — The day before Thanksgiving is known as one of the biggest nights of the year for drinking. Counselors and therapists are especially concerned this year about those with substance issues using alcohol to cope with the pandemic.
"This is a very emotional time. It's a time with a lot of stress for families," Bailey Trotter, LMHC with Landmark Recovery, said. Trotter tells WRTV, hospitals and treatment centers are preparing to see more patients than usual
"Alcohol consumption is up. Being aware that more people may be coming in or need treatment for alcohol related issues or injuries is important," Trotter said.
Covid-19 has made everything less safe. States like Pennsylvania are banning alcohol sales at bars starting at 5 o'clock on Wednesday until 8 AM Thanksgiving morning to slow the spread of coronavirus.
While that isn't happening in Central Indiana, Trotter said people who are choosing to celebrate Thanksgiving on a smaller scale still need to be aware of how much they're drinking.
That's especially true for those who may be alone on Thanksgiving, according to Trotter, even if you're not endangering anyone else with your drinking. "Let's just say, it's you, at home drinking to excess. Alcohol is very poisonous to the human body. Damaging you body in that way is not good," Trotter said. "A relapse doesn't mean that you failed, it doesn't mean that you can't continue going."
If you are working to maintain your sobriety, Trotter encourages you to connect with those you love. It could be your family, friends, or someone else who is also in recovery."
"We like to say connection is the opposite of addiction. That's why it's important to connect with others when you're struggling," Trotter said.
