Among all of the news and information we have been bombarded with recently, one term we have all heard is “new normal.” With many people attempting to cope with the impacts of Covid-19, new trends have begun, like virtual game nights, even more tik toking, whipped coffee, and virtual happy hours. Due to this new trend of “virtual happy hours” we have seen an increase in alcohol sales. A newsletter from the Ohio College Initiative stated “National market research firm Nielsen indicates that sales of spirits increased by 75 percent compared to this same time last year. Beer sales saw a 66 percent increase and wine went up 42 percent year-on-year.” So, what can we do to ensure that virtual happy hours don’t turn into negative consequences down the road? Below are 6 ways to stay mindful about your drinking habits during quarantine.
- Reassess your drinking habits: Take a look at your habits and see if that is truly where you want to be and set hard limits for yourself.
- Have a set schedule: It can be difficult to set a routine when you’re home all the time but setting a routine will help you keep more normal habits. If you wouldn’t typically drink until Friday after 5pm, set a routine that keeps that same structure.
- Take a social media break or at least a break from certain people: If there are people all through your timeline drinking, it will be difficult to keep it off your mind.
- Find new, healthy coping strategies: This is a perfect time to find a new hobby that helps you to unwind without drinking alcohol. Checkout how the Student Wellness Center staff copes in the video below!
- Don’t stock up: Chances are if you have it, you’ll drink it. So instead of stocking up on alcohol, try just purchasing a drink when you order carryout for dinner once in a while.
- Use this as a time to be sober: Many people drink solely in social settings. So, while you don’t have the opportunity to go out to a bar or a house party with friends, abstain from alcohol completely and maybe try some new non-alcoholic beverages.
If you would like to assess your current drinking habits you can visit go.osu.edu/screenuwin to take a 3-5 minute anonymous assessment. You’ll receive non-judgmental feedback encouraging you to think about your choices that may be putting you at risk for harmful consequences as well resources available to you.