Alcohol and substance use : basics of excessive alcohol use

Updated June 12, 2020Increased stress can lead to increases in alcohol and substance use. If you or someone you care about is starting to use alcohol or other substances, or is increasing their use during the COVID-19 pandemic, here are a few suggestions that may help:\u2022 Contact your healthcare provider.\u2022 Locate virtual treatment and recovery program.\u2022 Medication-assisted treatment for alcohol or opioid use disorders may be an option.\u2022 Take medicine as prescribed and continue your therapy, treatment, or support appointments (in person or through telehealth services) when possible.\u2022 Call the National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service (1-800-662-HELP) to speak with someone about an alcohol or substance use problem.Take care of your mental health -- What you can do -- What states and communities can do -- What healthcare providers can do -- Basics of excessive alcohol use -- Drinking alcohol and COVID-19 -- Basics of substance use -- Substance use and COVID-19 -- Additional resources.2020798