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Coronavirus and Addiction

COVID-19 has stopped the United States in its tracks. With over 140,900 confirmed cases of the virus as of March 30, 2020, the pandemic is effecting all 50 states and drastic measures are starting to be enforced. The most serious tactics being used to try and combat the spread of the virus are stay-at-home or shelter-in-place orders that are occurring around the country and the world. In the United States, 21 states have issued stay at home orders for their residents. Schools are closed, many businesses were ordered to close or allow their employees to work from home, and gatherings of more than 10 are strongly discouraged; in some states or cities, they are actually against the law. No one knows how long these drastic measures will be needed but, for many, it’s a stressful time, and some are trying to cope with the help of everyone’s favorite social lubricant: alcohol. Unfortunately, for some, alcohol consumption creates a whole new set of issues that must be dealt with. COVID-19 Ov...

Alcohol Abuse Signs and Symptoms

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  Alcohol Abuse Symptoms Alcoholism comes in many forms with some problem drinkers appearing jovial and carefree, while others are irritable and difficult to get along with. The physical symptoms of alcoholism often take many years to manifest, so it is difficult to identify an alcoholic on that basis. However, there are many behavioral, physical, and psychological symptoms, including these: Depression Anxiety Anger Rigid opinions Violent behavior Financial trouble Difficulty maintaining employment Decline in personal hygiene Frequent smell of alcohol Delusions Blotchy red skin Bloodshot eyes Hallucinations Poor concentration These are just some of the questions you can ask yourself, and if you say “yes” to any of them, you may have a form of alcohol use disorder, which ranges from alcoholism (not a medical term) to heavy drinking. Consulting your doctor may be a good first step, but remember that a majority of general physicians do not know as much as...