ROCHESTER, Minn. – A study by a Mayo Clinic psychiatrist found growing substance abuse and alcohol consumption during the pandemic. Pravesh Sharma said that alcohol consumption was up 70% in his study cohort. His theory on why: Because of patients are staying home and relying on alcohol to minimize their negative mood. Sharma noted, also, that people who have a history of loneliness, anxiety, and depression are more at risk with substance abuse. About 34% of his study cohort reported more substance abuse. Sharma’s recommendation: Stay connected with others through technology and take a break from alcohol over the holidays.
