The coronavirus pandemic is colliding with another growing public health issue: alcoholism and alcohol dependence. As countries scrambled to fight the spread, public officials tried to ease people into the unknown by implementing disease control measures. While designed to slow down the spread and make room for vaccine development, the devastating long-term effects of enforced quarantine, travel restrictions, and widespread institutional closures have been felt by millions.
Social Isolation and Alcoholism During COVID 19
One thing is certain: long-term social isolation is a perilous breeding ground for alcohol use and misuse. Developing full-blown alcoholism is just a matter of time when circumstantial pressures do not relent. This isn’t merely conjectured either, as research points to growing numbers of people struggling to manage their alcohol intake as they spend more time alone and cope with recent losses.
A recent study examining U.S. men and women and their drinking habits found that alcohol consumption rose by 14%. Women, in particular, saw a steep rise of 41% in heavy drinking episodes. These numbers are incredibly concerning, and it poses an additional risk to people struggling with alcohol use who contract COVID-19.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning on excessive alcohol consumption. It hinders the body’s capability to fight infections, recovery time and increases the likelihood of developing acute respiratory distress syndrome and pneumonia.
Signs of Alcoholism
Alcoholism is defined by drinking behavior that is uncontrolled, leading the patient to develop physical and emotional dependence on the substance. If you are not sure whether you or a loved one may have developed a substance abuse disorder, the first step is familiarizing yourself with the signs and symptoms of alcohol dependency.
Everyone has different reasons for pouring a glass of wine or grabbing a cold beer from the fridge. Whether you are enjoying the company of friends or had a long day at work, alcohol helps people relax.
Perhaps you frequently think about what time you’ll have your first drink; maybe you are irritable and distracted until that time. Alcohol abuse will also impact your finances, as it can be a costly addiction that negatively affects work performance and how much money you earn.
A friend or family member may have pulled you aside and expressed concern about your drinking habits. Maybe you’ve already tried to cut down, with no success. Alcohol dependence can impact every aspect of your life. If it controls your thoughts, it controls your life. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments for those struggling with alcohol dependency.
Traditionally, treatment involves counseling and therapy or mutual support groups. However, there is a highly effective pharmaceutical option that is widely accessible—even during the pandemic.
The Sinclair Method
While some people find relief in 12 step meetings or rehab settings, the COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult to facilitate consistent in-person treatment options. However, if you’re looking for evidence-based treatment, the Sinclair Method may be of interest, an FDA-approved alcohol dependence treatment since 1994.
Developed by Dr. John D. Sinclair, this untraditional treatment does not require abstinence at the beginning of treatment. What it does require is that you take Naltrexone an hour before you drink. This is an opiate-blocker that prevents endorphin release after alcohol consumption.
Simply put, the “buzz” that draws you to alcohol is no longer there, allowing your brain to decouple the association of alcohol with a rewarding experience. Over time, you will see a significant reduction in cravings and an increase in control over your alcohol intake. You may even lose interest in drinking entirely, as your days without alcohol are better than those where you drink.
Technically, this process is called pharmacological extinction, using a medication to reduce a person’s cravings to zero by reprogramming habits and the reward system.
Online Naltrexone Treatment
Are you interested in Naltrexone treatment, but unsure where to turn for help? Many people are in the same boat. The coronavirus has changed nearly every aspect of life, and that includes how we approach healthcare. Luckily, telemedicine has emerged in recent years for its versatility, efficiency, and accessibility. In light of pandemic restrictions, online doctors take the distance out of the equation to get the care that you need.
Online naltrexone treatment is not new. Rehab facilities across the country have incorporated telemedicine options over the last few years. Aside from pandemic-related convenience, it has made it easier for people to admit they have a problem and receive treatment before it gets worse. Many people feel shame and guilt for their substance use disorder. In some cases, those feelings are so strong that they never get help.
Conclusion
Relief from alcoholism has never been more accessible, nor does it need to cost a fortune. At WebDoctors.com, we offer affordable online consultations and prescriptions for Naltrexone. We’re pleased to say that the Sinclair Method has a 70-80% success rate, and you can be a part of that statistic and continue to live your life without a dependence on alcohol.
At WebDoctors, you will first complete a consultation with one of our experienced physicians. The first consultation costs $95, and any follow up online visits cost $49.95. After the initial consultation, you can choose your local pharmacy of choice where the prescription will be electronically sent. The cost of your medication depends on your insurance and the area in which you live. Organizations like GoodRX and SingleCare, however, provide coupons that you may be able to present for a discount.
Even in these times of high stress and anxiety, taking care of your health and wellbeing remains the most important responsibility. If alcohol has taken hold of your life, or that of a loved one, it doesn’t need to stay that way. Often, people fear the cold-turkey method that others opt for. However, that can be dangerous and psychologically taxing. This is why WebDoctors offers Naltrexone treatment so that you can start making progress today, without having to quit drinking immediately.
Consult with an online doctor today, or refer a friend in need to our services. WebDoctors is here to help.
